Colin "The Flag Man" Edry Campbell

Born on November 24, 1947, in Lansing, Michigan, Colin was the beloved son of Betty Jean (Campbell) and Edry Lundberg. He was raised by his grandparents, Colin and Maggie Campbell, alongside his sister, Donna (Neil) Workman, and brothers, Milo (Francis), Douglas (Susie), and Marcelle (Evelyn) Campbell.

A week after graduating from Eastern High School, Colin—known to many as “Butch”—answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. He completed basic training at Camp Lejeune and went on to serve two tours in Vietnam. His service and sacrifice remained a defining source of pride throughout his life. He always carried himself as a Marine, and loved telling stories from his years in the service to anyone and everyone.

After returning home from his tours in Vietnam, he met the love of his life, Catherine. They were married for nearly 48 years, raising a family and building a life they truly enjoyed. Post-Vietnam, he also began a long and dedicated career with General Motors, where he worked for decades, until his well-earned retirement in 1999. After retirement, he continued to find ways to serve his community, notably acting as a local crossing guard, where he brought his signature warmth and humor to the job, making the morning walk to school something everyone looked forward to.

Colin expressed his love of country in ways that were proud, visible, and entirely his own. He became a familiar sight in the Haslett community, known for walking his dogs up and down Marsh Road, American flag in hand, sharing his support for the troops with every passing car. He kept track of each honk—tallying well into the hundreds of thousands—and delighted in the smiles he brought to strangers’ faces. To many, he wasn’t just a neighbor; he was a local icon, a one-man parade of spirit and pride.

An avid runner and traveler, Colin loved exploring new places on foot, always chasing the next adventure (and famously never getting lost in Colorado). He even held the unofficial record for riding the Black Hole waterslide at Pleasure Island an astonishing 55 consecutive times (“55 times, boys!”)—proof that his sense of fun and fearlessness never faded.

Colin was also a devoted animal lover. From cats to his African Grey parrot, Peepers, he cherished them all. But his heart belonged especially to his loyal walking companions over the years: Kasey, Bosworth the Outlaw, Buster, Chester Copperpot, and Jayda. Much like his animals, people were naturally drawn to him. Everyone he met became a friend, and he had a rare gift for making others feel instantly seen, welcomed, and valued.

A steadfast supporter of veterans and active-duty troops, Colin lived with deep respect for those who served. In quieter moments, he could often be found watching old westerns and war movies, reliving history and honoring the courage of those who came before and beside him.

Above all, Colin was a great human being—patriotic, kind, adventurous, and endlessly unique. He leaves behind his beloved wife Catherine; his sons Michael (Jodi) and Colin (Sarah); his treasured grandchildren Chase, Kennedy, Avery, and Lochlan; his brother Doni Houghteling; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws; and other close family members and friends, who will continue to carry forward his stories, humor, and the spirit that made him so memorable.

His life was one of service, love, laughter, and unforgettable presence. Haslett won’t be the same without him out there, waving that flag.

Service details will be announced in the near future.

Memorial contributions in memory of Colin Campbell may be made at https://gofund.me/a4b1b1536