Date of death: 07/09/2025
Saint Meinrad Class: C 1971
Michael Mustafaga passed away unexpectedly on July 9, 2025, at his home in Melbourne, Florida. He was born November 6, 1949, in Toledo, Ohio, to John and Evelyn (Rybka) Mustafaga. Michael attended St. Vincent de Paul elementary school. He graduated high school from Saint Meinrad Seminary in St. Meinrad, Indiana. Michael continued his education at the University of Toledo, receiving a Bachelor of English. He began his post collegiate career as an English teacher and basketball coach.
Michael was drafted into the Army after college and served at Ft. Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina. Upon completing his initial military service, Michael joined the National Park Service. He served as a park ranger at Yellowstone NP and Grand Canyon NP. He decided to rejoin the military in 1977. After graduating from the Air Force Officer Training School, he completed 24 years of service, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Upon retirement from the Air Force, Michael accepted a job with the Boeing Company as a security analyst. His interest in and concern for security extended from his work in the military, to his work at Boeing, to concern for his family and friends. Michael was enamored with all the western National Parks from Glacier NP to Grand Canyon NP, but Yellowstone NP had truly won his heart. After retiring again, this time from Boeing, he returned to Yellowstone NP to serve in administration.
Michael’s life was filled with family, friends, travel, golf, and fishing the elusive Yellowstone trout. He was always generous with his time and money. His kindness and positive regard for others will always be remembered.
Michael was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Kathleen Steinert and Lois Celestino (Trinidad); and brother-in-law, Richard Steinert. He is survived by his son, Nathan (Ali Szalwinski); and his grandchildren, Arden and Callan. He is also survived by his brothers, Larry (Amy) and Matthew; as well as five nieces, four nephews, two great-nieces and a great-nephew; and his many friends all over the country, especially his co-workers at Yellowstone NP and the Wisconsin farm family.
We will all miss him and his joking banter.