Kenneth Eugene Roath was ushered into heaven on Sunday, November 3, 2024 in Chelsea, MI at the age of 94.
Ken was born to LeRoy and Grace (Boheim) Roath on October 11, 1930 in Elmhurst, Illinois. While living in Lombard, Illinois, Ken met and married the love of his life and beloved wife of 72 years, Betty Carnahan. They raised their three children in Lombard until 1966 when they moved to Royal Oak, Michigan.
Ken was a master mechanic and jack of all trades. There wasn’t anything he couldn’t fix. He used his skills in auto repair to faithfully provide for his family in several jobs throughout his life. One of his favorite jobs was testing anti-locking braking systems for Rockwell International. The job he found most meaningful was teaching at Jardon Vocational High School where he was able to share with his students his knowledge and love for cars and mentor them in life skills.
Ken loved cars of all kinds and loved sharing that love with his grandchildren by taking them to the Detroit Auto Show and the Dream Cruise along Woodward Ave. He also loved collecting model trains. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren enjoyed running the trains through the little village he set up in his basement. They also have fond memories of him listening to them, playing with them, reading to them, and telling them hysterical stories of his childhood.
Ken was a quiet man who served his family and others well. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. Through his faithful example he taught others to love God, love others and work with integrity. He will be remembered for his wisdom, generosity, playful teasing, and sarcastic humor.
Ken was predeceased by his parents, LeRoy and Grace Roath and brothers LeRoy, Rollin and Marvin.
He is survived by his wife, Betty; sons Kenneth (wife Debbie), Keith (wife Sandi) and daughter Kathy Reimers (husband Carl); his 6 grandchildren Joel (Reimers), Evan Roath (wife Alissa), Christina Johnston (husband Ethan), Jordan (wife Renee), Rachel Hennessey (husband Daniel), and Joel (Roath); his 9 great-grandchildren Mae, Tanner, Allister, Margot, Asher, Paige, Cadence, Felix and Elijah; and his brother Charles Roath.
A memorial service will held at a date still to be determined.
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