Jeffery Mark Szelag, born on April 27, 1957, in Detroit, Michigan, passed away on September 22, 2025, in Wyandotte, Michigan. He was 68 years old.

Jeffery proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for eight years, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant (SSG E-5). Much of his military service was spent at KI Sawyer Air Force Base near Marquette, Michigan, where he worked as an air traffic controller. Following his honorable service in the military, Jeffery continued his dedication to aviation by joining the Federal Aviation Administration. There, he built a long and respected career as an air traffic controller and later as an instructor, sharing his knowledge and experience with future generations of controllers.

A devoted family man, Jeffery found his greatest joy in spending time with his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his loving children: Jeffrey (Kim) Szelag, Robert (Gena) Szelag, Katherine (Kevin) Gibbons, Nathan (Ashley) Szelag, April (Gilbert) Cullen, and Jason (Emily) Adams. His legacy continues through his sixteen cherished grandchildren: Melody, Robert, Brooke, Hailey, Alexis, Natalie, Nicholas, Ella, Haley, Emma, Evelyn, William, Noah, Matthew, Lola, and Rory.

Jeffery is also survived by his mother Joyce Szelag; siblings Dawn Kwiecien; Donald (Valarie) Szelag; Lauren (Patrick) Dudley; Jennifer (Doug) Edwards; and Steven (Laura) Szelag. Lastly, Jeffery's fiancé, Patty Abramczyk, who he dearly cared for. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will remember him fondly. He was preceded in death by his father Donald Szelag.

Outside of work and family life, Jeffery enjoyed the great outdoors. Hunting and fishing were among his favorite pastimes—activities that brought him peace and connection to nature. A passionate supporter of University of Michigan football, he rarely missed a game and took great pride in cheering on the Wolverines.

Jeffery's life was marked by service—to his country through military duty and to others through mentorship in his professional field. But above all else was his unwavering love for family. His warmth, presence and maybe a little grumpiness 😉 will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved him.

Visitation Thursday, September 25, 2025 from 1:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. with a Rosary at 6:30 P.M. at the Dearborn Location of the Howe-Peterson Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, 22546 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48124.

Funeral Service will be Friday, September 26, 2025 at 12:00 P.M. at the Dearborn Location of the Howe-Peterson Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, 22546 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI  48124