Roy Henry VanEffen, age 94, of Escanaba, passed away peacefully early Tuesday morning, December 17, 2019 at Christian Park Center in Escanaba.
Roy was born June 21, 1925, in Escanaba, MI, the son of Frank and Mary (LaCrosse) VanEffen. After graduating high school, Roy enlisted in the Marines and served in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
On May 31, 1947, Roy married Tillie Srock of Gladstone. Together they had three children, Gail (VanEffen) Egner, Mick and David VanEffen. Roy retired from Mead Paper after 41 years. During his time at Mead, Roy played for Mead’s Softball and Dart ball teams, winning many championships. Roy enjoyed playing horseshoes, watching the Packers, Tigers and Red Wings.
Roy is survived by his daughter, Gail (VanEffen) Egner and son Mick (Deb) VanEffen. Grandchildren, Jim (Melissa) Egner; Michelle (Scott) Rausch; Jessica (Jim) Schilling; Melanie Egner; Jared VanEffen; Shelly (Jesse) Norden. Great grandchildren, Makayla and Kaleb VanEffen; Anthony, Ethan and Hayley Norden; Taylar and Kyle Egner; Kayla Doll; Mackenzie and Trennan Rausch and great-great granddaughter Sophia.
Roy was preceded in death by his wife, Tillie, parents, Frank and Mary (LaCrosse) VanEffen; stepdad Art Beaudoin and son David VanEffen. Brothers, Bob (Dorothy) VanEffen; Orville VanEffen; Fritz (Lorraine) VanEffen; sisters Dorothy (Arvy) Johnson; Shirley (Curly) DeGrand; Gladys (Blash) Wolf; Carol (Sherman) Blake.
Family will receive friends Monday, December 23, 2019 from Noon until 2:00 PM at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Military Honors will be presented at 2:00 PM by the Gladstone American Legion Post 71. Prayers will be officiated by Rev. Fr. Rick Courier following military honors at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Roy will be laid to rest in Gardens of Rest Cemetery in Wells, MI. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the VanEffen family.
Wayne DeGrand - Menasha, WI
We were so sorry to read of Uncle Roy’s passing. We pray the love of God enfolds you during your journey through grief. We send you thoughts of sympathy and comfort. Wishing you peace and strength during this difficult time.
Wayne and Diane DeGrand
Annette Plumley - Huntley, IL
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Blash Wolf Family
Cynthia A Lucas - Erie, MI
John and I we’re sorry to hear about Uncle Roy’s passing. Please know that our thoughts are with you all at this difficult time.
John and Cindy Lucas