Fred R. Roselle "Big John", age 95, a long time resident of Commerce Township, MI passed away November 18, 2013 in Milford, MI. His memorial service will be held 1:00 PM Tuesday, November 26 at the Highland Chapel of Elton Black & Son Funeral Home, Highland, MI. Family and friends are welcome to gather one hour preceding the service. Following the service at 2:30 PM, a military ceremony honoring Fred will be held at the Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly, MI where his remains will be buried. Fred was born to Herbert C. Roselle of White Lake and Alma S. Waelde of NY on September 3, 1918 in Commerce, MI. He was preceded in death by both his parents, his brother Frank, and his son Joseph. He attended Walled Lake High School and was a key player on the basketball and football teams. He graduated with the Class of 1937. In 1941, Fred was the first soldier drafted in Commerce Township to serve in the U.S. Army. He served his country during W.W.II as a motor inspector and automotive mechanic and received an American Defense Ribbon, Good Conduct medal during his tenure. He was honorably discharged in October,1945. Fred married his sweetheart Sarah on July 16, 1942 and was a loving and devoted husband for more than 71 years. Together they were blessed with three children. He was a cherished father of Joseph, Nancy, and Rich; a beloved grandfather to Rich and his wife Pam’s two sons, Justen and Jonathan. He leveraged his mechanical skills at the GM Proving Grounds in Milford, MI where he worked as a master mechanic. Known best by his coworkers as “Big John”, he was a gentle giant with an unparalleled work ethic. He retired from GM after 25 years of service at age 65, enjoying 30 years of retirement before he passed. The thing he loved most after his family, his lake and his island was helping his neighbors. Nothing could make him happier than a friend in the neighborhood calling him to say “Fred, can you give me a hand?” Fred was the best friend a person could have and we will all keep him in our hearts.In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to the American Cancer Society.
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