Obituaries

Carl “Bud” Mathew Mortensen Sr., age 96, of St. Ignace, Michigan, gained his wings on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. He was born on August 3, 1930, in St. Ignace to Carl and Lillian (St. Andrew) Mortensen, the youngest of their six children.

Bud was a lifelong resident of St. Ignace. He graduated from LaSalle High School with the Class of 1948. Following high school, Bud continued his education at Michigan Tech College, where he studied engineering.

In the winter of 1952, Bud met the love of his life, Joyce Marie Stauffer. The two were married on September 22, 1952, and shared nearly 54 years of marriage, family, and memories together. Bud and Joyce were strong advocates for their community, family, faith, and education, values they carried throughout their lives.

Bud worked for the Michigan Department of Transportation for more than thirty-five years. He began his career with the Michigan State Ferries and Mackinac Bridge Authority before going on to work as a surveyor. In 1965, Bud and Joyce purchased B&J Market in Evergreen Shores. They later went on to own and operate the Rockview and Cedar Motel.

A man deeply devoted to his faith and community, Bud was a lifelong member of St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church. He was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, Lions Club, and Pine River Hunt Club. Bud served as a school board member for Evergreen Shores Elementary and was an enthusiastic supporter and follower of high school sports.

Bud had many interests that brought him joy throughout his life. He was an avid reader, enjoyed playing cards, and loved traveling throughout the United States with friends and family. He was also an ardent outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing throughout the Upper Peninsula and Canada.

Bud is survived by his children, Gregory (Brenda) Mortensen of Traverse City, Michigan, Kathryn (Rich) Mayer of Grand Haven, Michigan, Michael Mortensen of St. Ignace, Debra (Ross) Gibson of Somerset, Michigan, Carl Mathew Mortensen Jr. of St. Ignace, and Christopher (Rochele) Mortensen of St. Ignace; grandchildren, Joshua (Holly) Mortensen, Amy (Phil) Conner, Kari (Thomas Jr.) Natale, Kyle (Laura) Mayer, Dennis (Melisa) Sorenson, Kaili (Nolan) Miklusicak, Gerrit (Molly) Mortensen, Dane (Alexis) Mortensen, Regan Mortensen, Alexander (Martina) Gibson, and Christopher Gibson; brother, Clint (Barbara) Stauffer; sister-in-law, Betty Sorrels; brother-in-law, Peter Christensen; nineteen great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; lifelong friends, Peter Willett and Jack Laver; and the rest of the Mortensen family.

Bud was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Marie; parents, Carl and Lillian; granddaughter, Trisha Mortensen; sisters, Martha (Lawrence “Pooch”) Tamlyn, Margaret (Wayne) Saaranan, Barbara (Jerome) LaJoice, and Georgianna Savard; brother, Donald Mortensen; brother-in-law, Charles Stauffer; sisters-in-law, Irene Stauffer and Clara Ann Christiansen.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 Noon at St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church, 120 Church St, St Ignace, MI 49781. The Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 12:00 Noon with the burial to follow at Gros Cap Cemetery.

Bud will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his faith, his community, and the many friendships he made throughout his long and meaningful life.

Family Life Funeral Homes – St. Ignace assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.