Roger E. Ives

Roger’s journey on this earth was marked by a profound commitment to faith, a love for his children, and a passion for his hobbies.

Roger graduated from Stephenson High School. On September 2, 1961, he embarked on a lifelong journey with his soulmate, Barbara Marie Jordan, in Racine, Wis. Together they built a home and family in Bark River, MI. Barbara preceded him in death in 2017, leaving behind a legacy of enduring love.

A proud veteran, Roger served four years in the U.S. Coast Guard. After an honorable discharge, he embraced the roles of self-employed carpenter and logger, followed by dedicated service within Forestry Industry. In 1993, Roger began Ives Truck and Auto Repair with his son. Roger could talk to anyone and enjoyed conversations with his many customers. Roger and his wife Barb, who was the bookkeeper, drove to work together every day until he retired in 2008.

Roger’s faith was a cornerstone of his life, as he was a devoted member of the Bark River Bible Church, finding joy in the melodies of hymns and a deep connection to the lyrics. It would be singing of these hymns that would sustain him in his last months of life.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Roger found joy in the simple pleasures of life. An avid racing enthusiast, he reveled in the excitement of the track and later would enjoy time with his brothers ice fishing and going to local antique car shows showcasing his corvette. His green thumb transformed gardens into bounty, and his love for hunting brought excitement and camaraderie with his family. Most treasured were the moments spent with his grandchildren in the ‘back room’, tinkle-berry hill, and the back-40.

After the loss of his wife Barbara, Roger found the perfect companion in Delores Lehouillier. Her genuine source of care allowed Roger to continue sharing his faith and pursuing hobbies that brought fulfillment until the very end.

Roger is survived by his loving children: Steven (Angie) Ives, Vicki (Jim) Robin, Kathy (Jeff) VanEnkevort, Janelle (Jeff) Donovan, Gwen (Alex) Choi, Beth Ives, Greg (Jessica) Ives, and Candace (Phil) Bellefeuille. His Grandchildren include: Ben (Kelsey) Ives, Heather (Jerek) McKinney, Heidi Ives, Hailee (Tyler) Wilkinson, Jordan Ives, Logan and Ayden VanEnkevort, Kiera and Kallie Donovan, Jamisyn and Gavin Bergeron, Payton, Taylor, Parker, and Shaelyn Ives; great grandchildren, Harbor, Marina, and Jetty Wilkinson, Eliana, Zadie and Zurie Ives, and Zaden and Zelek McKinney.

As the first among his 12 siblings to unite with their Heavenly Father, he leaves behind a profound love for his five brothers and six sisters, having shared a lifetime of meals, laughter, moments of sickness, and the greatest of victories together. We recognize the undying support and never-ending care of his 11 siblings–Dee Dee (Flora Lee) Jarvis, Donald (Doris) Ives, Lois DeMille, Gale-Peanut (Evie) Ives, Peggy Johnson, Barb (Raymond) Padilla, Lolly Kostreva, L. Bruce (Sue) Ives, George (Mary) Ives Jr., Marcia (Daryl) Peterson, and Gary (Cindy) Ives; and his many nieces and nephews.

In the embrace of his deep faith, Roger has reunited with his parents, George Sr. and Flora May, and his beloved wife, Barb, along with their son, Thomas, who preceded him in death.

Visitation to celebrate Roger’s life will be held on Thursday, December 28 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Bark River Bible Church, culminating in a funeral service at 4 p.m., officiated by Pastor Bradley Cochrane. Following the service, a meal will be served in the church hall, a fitting tribute to a life well-lived.

Roger’s final resting place will be in the Stephenson Twp. Cemetery on Friday, December 29, at 9 a.m. EST.

For those wishing to convey condolences, a message may be shared with the family at www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net.

The Crawford Funeral Homes are honored to assist the family during this time of remembrance and reflection.