McKay, Roy Ellis - 1924-2012

ANDERSON, BARLOW, BUCKWALTER, CHALOUD, COX, GILLHAM, GOLDEN, GROVE, MCKAY, PECHMAN, PETERS, ROBINSON

Posted By: Polk volunteer
Date: 8/11/2024 at 11:40:32

Roy Ellis McKay passed away November 2, 2012. Born January 31, 1924, to Roy and Kathlyn McKay in Des Moines, IA, he graduated from East High, enlisted in the army, and survived the Invasion at Omaha Beach in WWII. Later he graduated with a business degree from the University of Iowa. He co-founded Grodt & McKay Real Estate and Insurance and remained active in Real Estate until his retirement.
Roy had a passion for exercise his entire life. He actively participated in the Iowa Senior Games and Senior Olympics where he frequently won his age group. He reveled in exercising with his wife, Jodie, friends and family, and 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; sisters, Marian M. Gillham and Norma J. Peters. He is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, JoAnn McKay; daughters, Janet Cox, Cindy Pechman (George Grove), Valerie 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, Nathan, Simon; and five great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Greater Iowa Chapter, 1730 28th Street, West Des Moines, IA 50266. A memorial service will be held on Monday, November 5, 2012, at 7 p.m. at Hamilton's on Westown Parkway West Des Moines.
Published in Des Moines (IA) Register; Monday, November 5, 2012, page 9A