Maurice W Midgette Jr.

Maurice William (Bill) Midgette, age 73, a native Mobilian, died at home on June 9, 2012, with his family by his side. He was fighting a brief but losing battle with pancreatic cancer and was “same old Bill Midgette” to the all-too-soon end, facing it with courage and humor. When advised of his illness, he said, “We’ve had a good life”. Bill was a 1957 graduate of University Military School and was graduated from Auburn University in 1963 with a degree in Industrial Engineering. Following graduation, Bill served in the U.S. Army, initially stationed in Korea and then returned to the United States and was stationed at Granite City Army Depot in Illinois. After completing active duty, he subsequently joined the U.S. Army Reserves for several years. After his time in the Army, Bill was employed at Granite City Steel; however, as soon as circumstances allowed, Bill returned to Mobile and worked at Teledyne Continental Motors, retiring in 1999 as Senior Facilities Engineer. Bill was a member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, an enthusiastic member of Sigma Chi Fraternity, a mystic society, and several conservation organizations; but it was his membership in the Alabama Coastal Fisherman’s Association that allowed him to be most active. From his earliest years, Bill was involved in learning the art and science of hunting and fishing. He was truly happiest in a duck blind or his boat with a rod and reel in his hands, no matter the weather, the time of year, or the area in which we were living. He loved learning the “tricks of the trade” from friends, and at the same time, was eager to share his knowledge with others. He often shared his catch of fish or doves with others; however, the home freezer always managed to stay packed with seafood. He would spend hours on the telephone each week discussing the latest, hottest places for finding fish. The “fishing reports”, as they were officially known, were the highlights of his evenings. Bill was indeed a talented and knowledgeable sportsman, much respected by his peers in the city and across the Bay and he was quick to lend a hand whenever or whatever help was needed. Despite his initial trepidation, Bill became a seasoned and cosmopolitan traveler, enjoying ocean-going and river cruises as his favorite way to travel. His out-going personality made it impossible for him to meet a stranger and he could carry on a conversation even with those who spoke little or no English. Bill is survived by his wife, Virginia Beard Midgette; his daughters Leslie Midgette Hopper of Mobile and Kendall Midgette Millsap of Birmingham; four granddaughters, a sister, Edna Lynn Midgette Hutt of Baltimore; and nieces and nephews. He wishes are that his ashes be placed in Mobile Bay, the area he loved so much. A memorial service will be held at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church at 1050 Azalea Road on Saturday, June 16, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. Honorary pallbearers are Tom Duncan, Louis Felis, O.P. Harrison, Charlie Dowdle, John Burke, Tom Langston, Jerry Torrans, Richard Suk, and Otto Stupka. The family wishes to thank the very many people for their kindness and support given at this time; in addition, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Luke’s Church or the charity or organization of his or her choice.