June 17, 2026

IN MEMORIAM

FRANK UNGER
A member of the Class of 1965, Frank passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on April 19 at the age of 81.  Born on October 27, 1944, in Muskegon, Michigan, he was the son of Frank and Pauline Unger.

Frank’s early years were shaped by his strong Catholic upbringing. He attended St Joseph Seminary, served in the military, and continued on to college before earning a Master’s in Accountancy from Grand Valley State University. His education laid the foundation for a successful career as a controller for several manufacturing and printing businesses in southwest Michigan.

Faith was central to Frank’s life.  A devout Catholic and longtime member of St. Catherine of Siena Church for over 40 years, he contributed tirelessly to the parish community. He served as a cantor, sang in the church choir, and participated in the parish council.  Frank was also a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus for more than 50 years.

His family suggests donating in his memory to St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 1150 W Centre Ave, Portage, MI 49024; Knights of Columbus PO Box 52, Paw Paw, MI 49709; or Kalamazoo Male Chorus P.O. Box 2791, Kalamazoo MI 49003.

More info: https://www.langelands.com/obituaries/Frank-John-Unger?obId=48175668

CARL OCCHIPINTI
A member of the Class of 1968, Carl died peacefully Thursday, June 11, 2026, at his home in Twin Lake, Michigan. He was 77.

Carl grew up in Grand Rapids, attended St. Joseph Seminary and Aquinas College. He received his bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas, and his master’s degree in social work (MSW) from Michigan State University.

Carl dedicated his life to service. He worked as a vocational rehab counselor and manager for Muskegon County and the State of Michigan for four decades. He was quiet in his work and philanthropy, helping people with disabilities reach their potential.

Carl was known for his whip-smart sense of humor, often supplying the humor in Latin and Greek, a reflection of his years in seminary and an acutely brilliant mind. He saw the absurdity in life and never failed to offer a wisecrack. He recently sent a Mr. Spock birthday wish to a sibling: Vive diu et prospero (“live long and prosper”).

The family will host family and friends to share memories and celebrate Carl’s life from 4-7 p.m. Friday, June 19, at Wonderland Distilling Co., 1989 Lakeshore Dr. Ste. B, Muskegon,
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to he Disability Network of West Michigan.

More details: https://obits.mlive.com/us/obituaries/grandrapids/name/carl-occhipinti-obituary?id=61697391

AIN’T TECHNOLOGY GRAND!
My laptop crashed a few weeks ago and left me without editing access to the St. Joe alumni website, newsletter, and Zoom.  Now that I’m back online, I’ll work on editing our June 3 Zoom session and preparing it for distribution to participants and other alumni.  Our next Zoom will take place on Wednesday, August 12, beginning at 7 p.m. ET.  Watch for the url.