Roland Raymond Spelich

Born in February 1940 in Copper City to Frank and Dora (nee Beaudoin) Spelich, Roland grew up in Lake Linden and attended Lake Linden-Hubbell High School. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army and deployed to South Korea.

Upon his return, he moved to Detroit where he met his wife and later worked for Ford Motor Company as an illustrator in Engine Design until his retirement in 2000, upon which he relocated to southern California.

Roland’s true talent and passion was his artistic ability as a painter, who exhibited his works in local galleries in San Diego and Greenville, SC. In addition, he loved playing music for friends and family as an accomplished guitarist.

He is survived by Portia, his wife of 56 years, and son John and daughter-in-law Lacey (both of San Diego County). Grandchildren, Matthew and Kelsey Spelich. His sisters Darlene (Spelich) Brusso and brother-in-law Cliff Brusso of Laurium and Jane (Spelich) Rothenberger of Laurium, as well as numerous nieces and nephews across the nation.

He is predeceased by his brother Weldon Spelich, and sisters Doris Heikkinen and Shirley Sandback.

There will be a mass held in memory for Roland at 8 a.m. Friday, June 30th, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 701 Calumet St, Lake Linden, MI 49945. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society.