Soggy Bottom Bar in Flint, Michigan, has announced it is closed indefinitely following the death of its longtime owner, Steven Tessmer, who passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at the age of 68. The sudden loss has deeply affected his family, staff, and the wider community that came to know both him and his establishment as a local gathering place.
The announcement was shared on the bar’s official Facebook page on Thursday, May 7, stating simply, “Soggys is closed indefinitely. Please stay tuned for any updates. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.” The post quickly drew an outpouring of condolences from customers, employees, and friends who expressed their sadness and shared memories of time spent at the popular Flint venue.
Located at 613 Martin Luther King Avenue in Flint, Soggy Bottom Bar became widely known for its lively atmosphere, welcoming environment, and strong community presence. The bar was especially recognized for its Jazz Nights, smash burgers, and well-crafted cocktails, attracting thousands of residents over the years who considered it a staple of local nightlife and social connection.
Steven Tessmer, born in 1957 in Flint, was the son of Arthur and Phyllis (Brousseau) Tessmer. He married his wife Nancy Gross in June 1976 in Davison, Michigan, and together they were approaching nearly 50 years of marriage. Their long partnership was marked by love, commitment, and shared dedication to building a strong family life.
According to his obituary, Steven and Nancy raised two daughters, Kristi and Shana, whom he adored. Family members recall that Steven was deeply devoted to his children and grandchildren, often expressing that his family was the greatest joy of his life. He was known for his humor and pride in fatherhood, often joking, “You can’t scare me, I have two daughters!”
Beyond his role as a father and husband, Steven was known for his tireless work ethic. He began working in autobody repair alongside his father at just 15 years old and eventually took over the family business in the 1980s. He later became the owner of Wolverine Autobody Repair Shop as well as Soggy Bottom Bar, both located in Flint.
Steven is survived by his wife Nancy; daughters Kristy (R.J.) Munger and Shana (Andrew) Aguirre; grandchildren Skylar, Logan, Steven, Jack, and Cecelia; siblings Michael Tessmer, Carol Bradley, and Cathy Tessmer; and many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and several siblings.
Steven Tessmer will be remembered for his dedication, his entrepreneurial spirit, and above all, his deep love for his family and community.