DETROIT (WXYZ) — On the corner of Brooklyn and Porter in Detroit's Corktown neighborhood sits the iconic Mudgie's Deli. A staple in the Detroit restaurant scene.
Mudgie's was known formally as Eph McNally's, where he was an employee. Then Greg Mudge started Mudgie's in 2008.
He was bringing in ingredients from local farmers and local businesses. He did not want to compromise and wanted to make Mudgie's known for that.
He loved the Motor City, and he wanted to make sure he provided a place where everyone felt like family and felt welcomed.
"Just the kindest soul, and it's just such a devastating loss for everybody. The friends, the family, and the community," Mudge family spokesman Tim Constant said. "What he has done for this community has been just absolutely incredible."
Constant says Greg would take the shirt off his back for anyone. He made a lasting impact on everyone he came across. He was always going above and beyond and serving food through love.
Today, many folks are coming here to Mudgie's, leaving flowers, lighting candles, and leaving notes for a man who did so much for the city.
During COVID, he always looked out for his employees, ensuring they were safe and taking extra precautions, only having outdoor dining and carryout service.
Outside of work, Greg was a D spinning the latest techno and house music and hosting events. He loved the outdoors, hiking, and camping. He had a passion for friends and family and for his business.
Greg had an unforgettable personality. His positive impact will forever be marked in the Corktown neighborhood.
"You can do it at a young age. If you were like Greg and you just gave it your all. I mean, he would be an inspiration to young people," said Co-Owner of Cork and Gable's Joseph Mifsud.
Greg Mudge, the owner of Mudgie's Deli in Corktown, passed away suddenly on Sunday.
The Detroit business community was shocked by the loss, with many turning to social media to express their sadness.
Bobcat Bonnie's, another Corktown restaurant, said they are "devastated" and "heartbroken" over the loss.
"Greg was one of the absolute best, and this loss to his family, friends and our neighborhood is huge."
Two James Spirits also posted on Facebook, saying, "Greg was the embodiment of a kind soul, a paragon of hospitality, and always a friendly face. No matter what mood you were in when you ran into Greg, you immediately started smiling without even knowing it."
