Alex Sagady
Lou Pocalujka
Alexander John Sagady Jr., 74, of East Lansing, Michigan, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2025, after a courageous battle with multiple myeloma. Born on October 1, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan, Alex was a dedicated environmental advocate whose work spanned decades and left a lasting impact on communities across the United States.
A graduate of the University of Michigan with a B.S. in Physics and Mathematics Education in 1972, Alex combined his analytical mind with a deep passion for environmental protection. Upon graduation, he volunteered full-time as the director of the Michigan Student Environmental Confederation, which aimed to facilitate citizen participation in environmental problem-solving. While at MSEC in 1974, his outspoken advocacy earned him an Environmental Quality Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for his exemplary personal commitment to living an environmentally sound life. From 1980 to 1995, Alex served as Director of Environmental and Occupational Health at the American Lung Association of Michigan, where he worked steadfastly to advance air quality standards and public health policies.
Later, as the founder of A.J. Sagady & Associates, Alex provided expert consulting services on air, waste, and wastewater issues, specializing in environmental protection for citizen groups, nonprofit organizations, and local governments. His work included independent reviews of proposed permits, advocacy for cleaner technologies, and technical analysis to help communities confront and resolve pollution problems. Alex's commitment to environmental justice was evident in his efforts to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to motivate regulatory agencies to act in the public interest. He was a vital force in efforts to combat industrial pollution and improve environmental policies across the United States.
Throughout his career, Alex was known for his unwavering dedication, tenacity, sharp intellect, and ability to bridge complex technical matters with grassroots advocacy. His heart and soul resided with the citizen environmental movement. He played a crucial role in shaping environmental policy and was a widely respected voice in his field. Notably, he served as the list manager for Enviro-Mich, a special project of the Sierra Club Mackinac Chapter, where he cultivated informed dialogue and collaboration across Michigan's environmental community.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Alex was a passionate outdoorsman and a lifelong gardener, always happiest surrounded by nature. Whether hiking Michigan’s wilderness or tending his garden, he lived in deep connection with the natural world. He was also a mentor and educator, generously sharing his knowledge with colleagues, activists, and students. He believed deeply in the power of community and worked tirelessly to foster partnerships that prioritized environmental health and justice. His life reminds us that one person, armed with conviction and knowledge, can change the world.
Alex is survived by his daughter, Andrea Kachnavage, and his sister, Mary Irene Sagady. He was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Mary Lobkovich; his father, Alexander John Sagady; and his sister, Elizabeth Ann Sagady.
In accordance with Alex's wishes, there will be no memorial service. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the American Lung Association in his honor.
Fred Kaluza
Sent: Saturday, May 31, 2025 12:24:27 PM
To: envir...@great-lakes.net <envir...@great-lakes.net>
Subject: EM:/ Alex Sagady
Enviro-Mich is a public forum on Michigan environmental protection, public health, the Great Lakes basin and watershed and natural resources conservation hosted by the Great Lakes Commission. Visit us at www.glc.org
Messages and content distributed on Enviro-Mich are the sole responsibility of the EM subscriber providing such content and
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Mark Graf
On Jun 1, 2025, at 10:05 AM, Fred Kaluza <fredk...@gmail.com> wrote:
John Hartig
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