Roy Leon Challender

Roy Leon Challender, age 85, of Williamsburg, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2025. Born in Suttons Bay, Michigan, on October 18, 1938, Roy was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife Frances (Burkholder) Challender; his children, Jeff (Ruth) Challender, Perry Challender, Roy (Penny) Challender, Jack (Kim) Challender; and his stepchildren, Kelly (Hal) Bevier, David Burkholder, Mike Burkholder, as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Roy graduated from Traverse City Central High School in 1957 and joined the United States Army. After that, he worked for General Motors Institute and completed a tool-and-die apprenticeship. Later, Roy operated Challender Construction Company, and on many occasions, his boys worked alongside him, teaching them valuable skills for the future. During his many years in the construction industry, he worked for Tezak Construction and Comstock Construction and retired as a Construction Superintendent for The Christman Company.

Roy was an enthusiastic baseball fan, and he proudly played for the Yuba Indians as a kid and enjoyed coaching his son's baseball teams. He rarely missed a Tigers game on TV and, for many years, traveled to Florida to watch the Tigers in spring training.

Roy enjoyed making maple syrup with his kids for many years. This activity reminded him of making syrup with his family when he was a child, and he loved creating new memories for his children and grandchildren.

Roy was proud to be a part of the committee that renovated the Yuba School. Being a student there as a child brought back fond memories for him. Roy spent countless hours working to bring the dilapidated building back to life. He was recognized for his dedication, commitment, and meticulous attention to detail.

One of his life's joys was his many grand dogs. He spent as much time with them as he could. He pampered them just as he did with his grandchildren.

Instead of a service, flowers, or gifts, the family asks that you reflect on the time spent with Roy and his dedication to his family and community.

Rest in peace.

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