Roger Dale May II

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Roger Dale May II, of Hastings, Michigan (2/18/93 – 9/24/26).

More than anything, Roger loved his children, Colton, Khilor, Gavyn and Roger Dale. Being their dad was something that he carried deeply in his heart. Circumstances made being present in their lives more difficult than he ever wanted it to be, but that never changed how much he loved them. He was grateful for the fathers, stepfathers, adoptive fathers, family members and other men who showed up for his children when he couldn’t to love, guide and protect them.

Roger is survived by his parents, Roger May (Denise Hettinger) and Paula May, as well as his sisters, Tonya Robins and Samantha May.

He will be missed by his nieces and nephews, Kobey Robins, Paige Robins, Alaster Nelson and Kyla May. They called him “Uncle.” Left behind are also Aunts, Uncles and several cousins.

Roger was predeceased by his brother, Josh Kirchen.

While stories of Roger’s childhood were sometimes brow-raising, they almost always ended in laughter. Truly a bright star, Roger could light up and entertain a room or a campfire. His mischievous smile and infectious laugh made you wonder what he was up to.

A very hard worker, Roger would tackle any project without hesitation or fear. From tearing apart a small engine just to bring it back to life, to fixing cars, roofing, replacing siding, cutting down trees or clearing a field of poison ivy, he’d tackle whatever needed to be done. If someone needed help, he rarely stopped to ask whether the job was too difficult – he simply got to work! He loved animals and would pick up and take care of any stray he came across.

Roger spent years fighting a difficult battle filled with challenges and setbacks but also moments of tremendous determination, courage and hope. Those who loved him saw how badly he wanted to change his life and be the man, father, brother, son and friend he knew he could be. His struggles were only one part of his story, and should never overshadow the person he was or the love he carried for the people he cared about.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the family to assist with costs: Roger May, 1731 Blue Grass RD, Lansing, MI 48906.

Hey guys, don’t feel guilty

It was just my time to go.

I can see you’re all feeling sad,

I can see the tears still flow.

My life’s journey ended early,

The path I chose was short.

You all tried your best to change it

But in the end it was for me to sort.

I know I caused you sadness,

I know I caused you pain.

But I was captured by these demons,

They wouldn’t set me free again.

They took away my freedom,

They took away my choice,

And when they got their hooks in,

You could hear it in my voice.

There were times I tried to fight them,

There was a time I nearly won.

But they came back and overpowered me,

I had nowhere left to run.

I haven’t really left you guys.

I am closer than you know.

I will be the whisper in the wind,

I will be everywhere you go.

~Jacqueline A. Grieve