Myles Edward Mulligan, age 83, a longtime resident of Sunset Hills, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 28. He was born on January 8, 1943, in St. Louis, Missouri.
Myles is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 58 years, Bonnie; his cherished children, Michael (Maureen) of Arlington Heights, Illinois; Mark (Erica) of Chesterfield, Missouri; and Matthew of Madison, Wisconsin; and his five beloved grandchildren, Brady, Callie, Mallory, Liam, and Riley. He is also survived by a large and loving extended family of relatives and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Callie Mulligan of St. Louis (Dogtown), and his brother, Dennis Mulligan of Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Myles greeted everyone—family, friends, and even strangers—with warmth and sincerity. His daughters-in-law and granddaughters were often welcomed with his familiar, “How ya doing, dear?” Strangers rarely remained strangers for long, as he would extend his hand and proudly declare, “Myles Mulligan—glad to meet you!”
A proud Irishman, Myles was born and raised in Dogtown. A man of deep faith, he began his education at St. James the Greater Grade School and graduated from Christian Brothers College in 1961. Shortly thereafter, he chose to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army, where he developed the culinary skills that became his lifelong vocation. Myles found great joy in preparing meals and bringing people together around the table. For him, it was never about himself—it was always about serving others.
After his military service, Myles met the love of his life, Bonnie. They were married on October 14 1967, and shared nearly 59 wonderful years together. Myles and Bonnie were avid travelers whether it was Europe, Alaska, or an out of the way “ball of twine” they enjoyed it together. They also would routinely seek out local bands to have a good time and tear up the dance floor. Their three sons remain his greatest pride and legacy.
In 2003, Myles retired and looked forward to a well-earned season of rest—though not before preparing and serving the meal at his own retirement celebration. Soon after, he faced a severe health crisis that nearly cut his retirement short. With remarkable grit and determination, he overcame an induced coma and a life-threatening septic infection. From that point forward, he embraced what he often called the “true golden years” of his life.
An avid cyclist, Myles biked 12 miles a day for nearly twenty years. When he wasn’t on his bike, he could be found walking through the neighborhood, offering a cheerful “Good morning!” to everyone he met.
Myles was a good man with a gentle soul. Though the final years of his life brought challenges, he faced them with the same strength and resolve that defined him. He often shared his philosophy on attitude, famously saying, “Every day I wake up, look myself in the mirror, kick myself in the butt, and say, ‘Let’s go!’”
His life was a testament to faith, perseverance, humility, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
SERVICES: Funeral from Kutis Affton Chapel (10151 Gravois Road Affton, Missouri 63123) Monday, March 9, 9:30 a.m. to St. Catherine Laboure Catholic Church for 10:00 a.m. Mass. Interment Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA). Visitation Sunday, March 8, 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.