Roger Orville Sousley, a lifetime Michigander, son, husband, father, brother, Marine and friend, died Thursday morning, March 242. He was married to Rosemary T. Sousley who preceded his death in 2012. They were blessed with four children, six grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter.
Roger is survived by his children Linda Ranville (Paul), Sally Derhammer, Lisa Giacomelli (Doug), Tim Sousley; grandchildren Nick Ranville (Meghan), Sarah Gunter (Zach), David Ranville, Paige Derhammer, Blake Derhammer, Connor Giacomelli; and one great-granddaughter, Savanah Ranville. Roger is also survived by his siblings Jack Sousley (Nancy), Richard Sousley, Judy Hanlon (Doug), and Susan Minch.
He was predeceased by his parents; wife, Rosemary Sousley; sister, Barb Peters; son-in-law, Ronald Derhammer; sister-in-law, Marsha Sousley; and brother-in-law, Robert Minch.
Roger was born in Grand Rapids on June 23, 1932. He was the first son and second child of six from Ora and Martha Sousley. He graduated from Grandville High School and Western Michigan University. He fought in the Korean Conflict as a Marine before returning to Michigan. His profession was insurance sales. He raised his family in Kentwood and later moved to a family cottage on Barlow Lake in Yankee Springs.
Roger was a member of Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church and its Men’s Club. He bowled, played softball, and spent many years camping with his family in upper Michigan and Sandy Pines. He liked to hunt, but fishing was his all-time favorite outdoor activity.
Roger will be remembered for his honesty, banter, integrity and his charm. He was respected and endeared by many.
Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, March 28, at Kubiak-Cook Funeral Home – Wayland Chapel (312 N. Main St. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. at Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church (159 131st Ave. Wayland, with visitation one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers and in memory of Roger, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.
