Abdon Joseph Sevonty passed into God's hands March 11, 2012. From very humble beginnings came forth a great man.


He was born July 30, 1910, in Pierz, Minnesota to Joseph B. Svienty and Bertha A. Deja. It became a large, hard-working farming family of 13 children. Times were often difficult, both personally and economically for the family, so everyone helped with the farm, care of the animals, and worked the land. At 16, his mother and siblings moved to Michigan to start a new and better life.


He began his long career in the automobile industry telling Henry Ford he was 18, not 16. He began working at the Rouge Plant in Michigan. Later, he moved to the DeSoto plant and finally to Chrysler as a tool & die man and lead mechanic, where he remained for 40 years, retiring at 60 from the Warren Truck plant in Warren , Michigan.


In his long lifetime, he saw many changes in the world. He lived through many wars and political upheavals, overcame economic problems, experienced life through many presidents, and saw the dawn of many world wide changes.


Many things gave Dad great joy, but the two that gave him his greatest joy were his love for his family and his love for the land. He wanted to be an architect, but put his dream aside to assist his family. Later, after marriage and three children, he built his home in Westland, Michigan, where he and his wife Simone raised Diane, Janet and Robert. He owned 12 acres, planting a large orchard, vegetables, and berries so the family was raised eating only fresh foods.


He was continually learning throughout his lifetime. Though not a degreed person, he was one of the most intelligent men I have ever known.


One of his loves was discussion with anyone about any topic of interest. He enjoyed meeting people and could easily strike up a conversation. Equally loved was traveling to see and meet new and interesting places and people. Our last big family trip was a three week camping trip covering 15 western states. What an adventure! Music, dancing and parties were always part of his family life. He continued to attend dances 3 times a week until 94. To his end, he held his sense of humor and flirtatious nature. He claimed no special secrets to his longevity. When prodded, he'd say that hard work, good food and habits, lots of fresh air, along with a few beers, had something to do with it!


Throughout his life he maintained close supportive ties with his family and held to a strong faith in God. Instilled by his mother; he was a man of strong moral fiber, showing courage and devotion in his 10 year care of his wife who suffered from Alzheimer's. He was my role model as a child and as an adult. He taught us through his actions many virtues, to be self-reliant, emotionally strong, determined, generous, hard- working, compassionate, faithful to God and self and always be learning.


In 2009 he moved to Wittman, Arizona, to live with his daughter Janet and enjoy the company of his two grandsons and four great grandchildren. He doted on them, was fascinated by them; they made him smile and laugh. They called him "Big G" since his official title was too long for them. His legacy to his family is beyond measure. With deepest love, respect and appreciation, we thank God for giving you to us and thank you for all you have given us to remember.

The deeds he performed speak volumes to his greatness as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend, " As you brushed against this world so gently, you lifted us."

Abdon is survived by his beloved daughter Janet B. Korte; 2 loving grandsons Jeremy and James Korte; 4 dear great-grandchildren Jonathon, Jordan, Joshua and Jamie; and 2 dear sisters Clarice Wamsganz and Margaret Danko. Abdon is preceeded in death by his beloved wife Simone Sevonty and loving son Robert Sevonty.

Visitation Friday, March 23, 2012 from 2-8pm at the John N. Santeiu & Son Funeral Home, 1139 Inkster Rd., (between Ford Rd. and Cherry Hill).

In state Saturday 9:00am until the 9:30am Mass at St. Mel Catholic Church, 7506 Inkster (just north of Warren).