Stephen James Metty, son of Aloys Charles Metty and LaMoine (Preston) Metty of Ann Arbor, Michigan and South Padre Island, Texas, passed away Sunday, July 17, 2016, at the VA hospital in Dallas, Texas. Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph MI. A private family service will take place at a later date.

 Steve was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan and grew up surrounded by a large family. After graduating from Ann Arbor High School, he joined the Navy and served on the aircraft carrier USS Constellation on the flight line. While serving, he was commended for preventing an accident that would have claimed four lives (including his own) and damaged numerous operational aircraft.

After leaving the service, he owned and operated Crystal Mobile Home Park in Benton Harbor, Michigan. He restored several classic cars and was especially proud of his 1957 Chevy.  He won the National Mud Racing Championship with his “Mud Wasp” several times. He retired to South Padre Island, Texas, and at the time of his death, he resided in Lindale, Texas. He was well known and loved in all the places he lived, and had many friends and acquaintances.

He is survived by his wife Betty (Malaski) Metty; son Michael S. Metty; two grandsons; siblings Beth, Elaine, Ron, Tom, Aloys, Theresa, Peter, Jane, John and Phil Metty and Patty Scott; stepchildren Lisa Baushke, Daniel Strong and Becky Abbott. He will be missed.

A private family service will be held at a later date.