Obituary of Roy Colpaert

Roy William Colpaert was born in Monroe, Michigan on November 15, 1957. He was one of three children, born to the union of the late William M. Colpaert and Evelyn (Simmons) Colpaert. Roy graduated from Monroe High School in 1976. He married the former Mary Ganallis on June 2, 1979 in Monroe, Michigan and from this union came the birth of two children. Roy was always a hard and diligent worker. For many years he provided for his family employed as a Supervisor for Bay Corrugated Company. Roy was a dedicated family man. He was always supportive of his children's passions and interests. He had a quiet presence most of the time and was a good husband to his wife. He was also a fun, loving son to his parents. Roy enjoyed bowling, softball, and horse racing. Visiting with friends and playing cards were a few of his favorite pastimes. He also liked to watch sports and listen to his music. Roy was known by his family as the "Great Instigator". He was always trying to get the kids to do what their parents didn't want them to. He was always telling his own creative and elaborate stories; most of which, of course, were the farthest thing from the truth. Roy William Colpaert, age 53, a lifelong Monroe resident passed away peacefully at his home at 7:23pm, Sunday, August 14, 2011. He was preceded in death by his father: William, and grandparents: Roy and Oppie Simmons, George and Alice Gallop, and Odil Colpaert. His memory will forever be cherished by his wife of more than thirty-two years: Mary of Monroe; two children: Michelle Colpaert and Derek Colpaert both of Monroe; his mother: Evelyn Colpaert; brother: John (Debbie) Colpaert of Monroe; sister: Amy (Ron) Boisvenue of Monroe; an aunt: Wilma Chapman of Monroe; an aunt and uncle: Jean and Russ Sian of Farwell, Michigan; seven nieces and nephews; and one grandchild on the way. Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 8:00pm, Thursday, August 18, 2011 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185 where a Celebration of His Life will take place at 11:00am on Friday, August 19, 2011. The Rev. Larry Head, pastor of Lakeside Missionary Baptist Church in Newport, will officiate. Cremation will follow. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, send a floral tribute, or send a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.