Roy E. McKay

Roy Ellis McKay passed away November 2, 2012. He was born January 31, 1924, to Roy and Kathlyn McKay in Des Moines, Iowa. He graduated from East High School in 1942, and enlisted in the Army, becoming part of 149th Engineer Battalion during World War II. He survived the invasion of Normandy following the remarkable challenge of landing at Omaha Beach with his battalion. Upon his Army discharge, he returned to Iowa and graduated with a business degree from the University of Iowa. He co-founded a real estate and insurance business in West Des Moines, Grodt & McKay. After the business was sold, Roy was a Realtor for several years in the Des Moines metropolitan area.

Roy had a passion for exercise his entire life, from playing tennis in high school to running and participating in marathons into his 60’s, and finally to swimming into his 70’s and 80’s. He actively participated in the Iowa Senior Games, and the Senior Olympics, where he frequently won his age group in competitions that he and Jodie enjoyed together. He reveled in exercising with friends and family and always encouraged others to participate and enjoy the benefits of exercise and good health.

Roy was an exemplary husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He quietly encouraged and frequently sacrificed to help others. His optimism, ready smile, and gentle manner will be sadly missed, but the lessons and values he imparted will endure. To say he leaves us is misleading. The enthusiasm for life and values he shared will be with us every day.

Roy was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters Marian M. Gillham and Norma J. Peters. He is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, JoAnn McKay, daughters, Janet L. Cox, Cindy M. Pechman (George Grove), and Valerie M. Chaloud (J. Scott Chaloud), step-daughters, Sherry Robinson, Christine Golden (Jonathan Golden), and Elizabeth Anderson (Michael Buckwalter); grandchildren Heather, Justin Cox, Brooke, Erin, Justin Barlow, Simon, and Nathan; and five great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Roy’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Iowa Chapter 1730 28th Street, West Des Moines, IA 50266.

Online condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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