Stephen T. Bajas, age 78, of Howell, passed away Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at the Regency of Whitmore Lake.

Stephen was born on May 10, 1948, in Detroit, the son of Chester and Mary (Wetherell) Bajas. A proud United States Army veteran, Stephen honorably served his country during the Vietnam War.

On December 2, 1988, Stephen married the love of his life, Gail A. Graham. Together they built a wonderful life filled with laughter, friendship, travel, and countless memories. Stephen was an amazing husband and father whose easygoing spirit and love of life made him someone people simply enjoyed being around. Children especially seemed drawn to him, and he always had a way of making them feel welcome and included.

A true Detroit-area guy at heart, Stephen loved Motown music and Detroit history. He was a devoted Detroit Red Wings fan and had even spent some time playing hockey himself. He was also unquestionably a Ford man. His beloved red Ford F-350 was a particular source of pride, and Stephen appreciated the good things in life, especially when they came with a recognizable brand name.

Stephen had a mischievous side and was well known as a prankster. He loved making people laugh and never took life too seriously. His outlook was refreshingly simple: there was no reason to worry too much because, somehow, things would take care of themselves. That carefree philosophy was part of what made Stephen so enjoyable to be around.

He appreciated life's simple pleasures—good Polish food, especially kielbasa, a freshly mowed lawn, time spent in Charlevoix, and RV camping. Mowing the grass was not merely a chore for Stephen; it was one of his favorite pastimes.

Stephen also enjoyed the excitement of the casino, particularly when he could share the experience with his good buddies, Phil and Larry. Some of his happiest memories came from vacations with Gail and their dear friends, Caroline and Joe, along with the many adventures he and Gail shared together.

Travel was an important part of Stephen's life. He loved RV trips and especially enjoyed cruising with Gail. Whether cruising down Woodward Avenue or setting sail aboard a Carnival cruise ship, what mattered most was that Stephen was experiencing it alongside the love of his life.

Above all, Stephen loved life itself. He approached each day with humor, optimism, and very few worries. He valued his family, his friendships, a good laugh, a good meal, and the opportunity to enjoy whatever adventure came next.

Stephen will be remembered as a devoted and loving husband, an amazing father, a loyal friend, a proud veteran, and a man whose humor and zest for life left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Stephen is the loving husband of 38 years to Gail; dear father of Sean (Brant) and the late Brian (Tina); cherished grandfather of 2 foster grandsons; fond brother of Maryann (Jim) Trudell,  Chester (Susan) Bajas, and the late Diana (Phil) Dmystryszyn; and uncle to numerous nieces and nephews.

Stephen's family will receive guests on Saturday, August 15, 2026, beginning at 12 pm until the 2 pm funeral service, at the funeral home.

Private interment will follow at Grand Lawn Cemetery in Detroit.

Memorial tributes are suggested to the Wounded Warrior Project.