Michael V. Stephens

Michael Van Stephens, age 71, of Bark River (Perronville), passed away Monday, December 12, 2022 at his home. He was born on January 17, 1951 in Escanaba, the son of Robert and Paulene (Majestic) Stephens. Mike was raised and attended school in Gladstone where he was a 1969 graduate of Gladstone High School. He enlisted in the US Army on August 9, 1971 and served his country during the Vietnam Era as a Military Police in Washington, D.C. until he was honorably discharged on February 28, 1973. Mike married the former Laurel A. Cmejla on April 26, 1975 in Gladstone and together shared 47 years of marriage. He began his working career at Mr. Tire in Escanaba, followed by Robinson Furniture, and later Grede Foundries in Iron Mountain. Mike then went on to further his education as a paramedic and was employed for Beacon Ambulance Service until his retirement in 2018. He also was an EMT Paramedic Instructor for many years. Mike greatly enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. After retirement, he and Laurel looked forward to spending their winters each year in Englewood, FL. He was a member of the American Legion.

Mike is survived by his wife, Laurel Stephens of Perronville; brothers, Dorne Stephens of Perronville, Kevin Stephens of Norway, MI, and Patrick “Dooly” Stephens of Green Bay, WI; and sisters, Terri Rossi of Gladstone, and Rose Robbins of Maryland; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his stepfather, John Peterson; and sister-in-law, Myra Holmi

Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at the Bark River United Methodist Church, 3716 D Road, Bark River, MI 49807. A Celebration of Life for Mike will follow at 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, with Rev. Christine Bergquist officiating. A meal will be served at the conclusion of the services in the church fellowship hall. Memorials may be directed to the Mariucci Family Beacon House in Marquette, MI. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael V. Stephens, please visit our floral store.