John W. Ujlaky

John William Ujlaky joined Our Lord and Savior – and his beloved parents, Emil and Mary (Czachorowski) – on one of the holiest days, Palm Sunday, April 13, 2025.

John, the only child of Emil and Mary, was born on June 23, 1949 in Owosso; where he was raised and graduated from Owosso High School in 1967. Following high school, John earned an Associate in Arts degree from Ferris State University in 1969, and went on to receive a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Central Michigan University in 1971. As the first in his family to complete college, he continued his academic journey and earned a Juris Doctorate, graduating cum laude with the Alpheus Felch Class of Thomas M. Cooley Law School, in 1977.

John settled in Grand Ledge in the mid-1970s and dedicated over 45 years to solo private legal practice, working tirelessly until his final days. He was a member of the State Bar of Michigan, Eaton County Bar Association, plus both the Eastern and Western Districts of the U.S. District Court. For 35 academic years he served as a devoted Adjunct Law Instructor at Lansing Community College. One of the proudest moments of his legal career came when he presented oral arguments before the Michigan Supreme Court in January 2024.

Beyond his legal career, John was an avid golfer, always striving to perfect his game. He generously shared his time and talents as a long-time supporter and contributor to the Grand Ledge High School wrestling team. In the community, John was a vibrant performer in the Mudge’s Follies for many years. In his younger years, he followed in his father’s footsteps as a race car driver, and he remained a lifelong fan of the sport. Music was John’s greatest passion – he loved songwriting, recording, performing, and sharing his joy for music with anyone willing to listen. He will be tremendously missed for his distinguished sense of humor, willingness to share his immeasurable knowledge, and his accepting, nonjudgmental approach to life.

Above all, John was most proud of his four children, their accomplishments, and the nine grandchildren that brought him immense joy. His will be deeply missed and was loved greatly by his family. John is survived by his son, John William (Bridgette) Ujlaky II of Jenison, and grandchildren Beaumont, Nadia, and Charisse; his daughter, Stephanie Ann (Dennis) Landry of Middleville, and granddaughters Olivia and Emilie; his daughter, Erica Lea (Jimmy) Gilliam of Roscommon, and grandsons Ethan, Chase, and Cody; his daughter, Alexa Louise (Russel) Stiles of Wilmington, Delaware, and grandson Wesley, as well as many adored cousins.

Born into the Catholic faith, John received his First Holy Communion, First Confession, Confirmation, and received Last Rites prior to his passing. Per his wishes, the family will be honoring John with a Catholic funeral service and celebration of life at a later date with burial to follow at Ford Cemetery in Elsie, MI. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Eaton County Animal Shelter in his memory. Online condolences may be made to https://www.amsfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/john-ujlaky. The family is being served by Avink, McCowen, & Secord Funeral Homes in Plainwell, MI.