OBITUARY: Stephen J. “Steve” McHugh, 81

Stephen J. McHugh, affectionately known as Steve, passed away peacefully on Sept. 22, 2025, at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers at the age of 81. Born June 2, 1944, in Detroit, Michigan, Steve was the beloved son of the late Evelyn and Edward Dewey McHugh.

Steve grew up in East Detroit and, after graduating high school, proudly served in the U.S. Army as a military police officer. Following his service, he earned his real estate license and co-founded McHugh and Parsley Real Estate, successfully running the company for many years.

He later shifted careers to join the HoneyBaked Ham business founded by his father-in-law, Harry Hoenselaar. Relocating his family to Marblehead in 1982, Steve expanded the company’s presence by opening stores across New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, New Hampshire and New Mexico. He retired in 2012, looking forward to more time with family, travel and his favorite pastimes.

Steve found joy both on the water and out on the golf course. He loved traveling and particularly treasured his time in Jupiter, Florida, and Paris, France. Above all, Steve cherished the time he spent with his wife, children and nine grandchildren. Steve was a playful, devoted grandfather who loved to support, cheer on, and brag about all his grandchildren.

Steve is survived by his loving wife, Susan L. McHugh; his children Jon (Courtney) McHugh, Melissa (Mark) McHugh-Modany, and Amy (John) Whipple; his beloved grandchildren, Tyler and Tess McHugh; Milo, Oliver, Josie and Linus Modany; and Jack, Teddy and Luke Whipple; and his dear sister, Mary Stewart. He was predeceased by his brothers, Tony, Tom, and Arthur McHugh; his granddaughter, Ella Sue; and his parents, Evelyn and Edward Dewey McHugh.

Steve will be remembered for his warmth, humor and unwavering devotion to his family. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A funeral Mass for Steve will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Our Lady, Star of the Sea Church in Marblehead. Following the service, the family and friends are invited to a reception at 1:30 p.m. at the Hawthorne Hotel, 18 Washington Square West, Salem.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Steve’s memory to Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, 34 Washington St., Suite 230, Wellesley Hills, MA 02481 or via www.curealz.org.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the McHugh family may be shared at www.eustisandcornellfuneralhome.com.