Public Memorial for Deli Owner Greg Mudge Is Sunday in Corktown

A public memorial is set for Sunday, Sept. 19, in Corktown to honor and remember Greg Mudge, the popular owner of Mudgie’s Deli and Wine Bar.

Mudge died unexpectedly on Sept. 5 of natural hypertensive cardiovascular disease. He was 46. Detroit Party Marching Band and the Gabriel Brass Brand will lead a march from the Dean Savage Memorial Park to Mudgie’s in honor of the deli owner, community leader, and DJ.

Guests are asked to gather at 12:30 p.m. at the park, which is on Trumbull between Porter and Abbot streets.

The Monsignor of Most Holy Trinity will speak at 1 p.m. outside of Mudgie’s, 1300 Porter. “Music, food, libations,” will follow, according to a post on the restaurant’s Facebook page. Andy Toth, Craig Gonzalez, Derek Plaslaiko, and Rob Barrett will DJ the memorial, which runs until 7 p.m.

Guests are asked to wear masks. “Greg was a leader of safety during COVID,” the statement reads. “Out of respect, please bring a mask and be prepared to use it if the event is densely attended.”

Founded in 2008 in Corktown, Mudgie’s racked up national awards and accolades for its house-smoked meats and sauces. His restaurant, an institution of the neighborhood, is a longtime member of Detroit’s Eater 38 and made Thrillist’s compilation of the nation’s best sandwich shops in America in 2017. The restaurant and wine shop are temporarily closed. Mudge’s death brought an outpouring of reaction from across the city and state.

• Mudgie’s Deli & Wine Shop Closes Temporarily After Death of Owner Greg Mudge