Obituaries

Roy Thomas Kassel, age 81, of Brimley, Michigan, died on April 22, 2026, at Ball Hospice House in Sault Ste Marie, Michigan. He was born on October 24, 1944, in Detroit, Michigan, to Arthur and Florence (Gutzke) Kassel.

Roy grew up in the Redford Township Area and graduated from Redford Union High School. After graduation, he went to work for Taylor Garage Door. He met his wife Roxanne Smither through family members, and they married on October 26, 1968. Together, they started their family raising two children. In 1973, they moved to Brimley and Roy began to work as the Jewel Tea man, then started his own business, Kassel Garage Door. He and Roxane also opened a video store together. He worked at American Drill Box for a while before working at Office Max. He retired from working maintenance at Central Savings Bank.

Roy loved fishing, gardening and playing cards. He was a huge Detroit Lions, Tigers, and Redwings fan. Most of all, he loved sitting on the back deck with Roxanne in the summertime.

Roy is survived by his daughter, Kimberly Thompson; son, Daniel (Raven) Kassel; grandchildren, Tyler, Shaylee, Trae, Malloreigh, and Santiago; great-granddaughter, Dahlia; another great-grandchild expected in June; brothers-in-law, Dick Starr and Thomas Perhai; and sister, Joan Matties.

Roy was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Roxanne; parents, Arthur and Florence; brothers, Raymond (Judy) Kassel, Robert (Maryann) Kassel, Donald (Gladys) Kassel, and Richard (Alexa) Kassel; sisters, Dorothy (Ralph) Spivey and Gert (Richard) Edwards; and infant sister, Marlene Kassel.

A Graveside Service at Oaklawn Chapel Gardens will be announced at a later date.

Memorial contributions in Roy’s honor may be made to Ball Hospice House, 308 W. 12th Ave., Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan 49783.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Sault Ste. Marie assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.