Roy A.

Metzker

Roy Arthur Otto Metzker, Johnson Creek, formally of Lakeland, Florida, age 94, Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Great-Grandfather, passed away on March 8, 2016, at the VA Hospice facility in Madison, WI, due to complications of head trauma following the removal of skin cancer. He would have celebrated his 95th birthday this March 15.

Roy was one of five children of Otto and Emma (Henning) Metzker. He was married to the love of his life and best friend, Lorraine "tootsie" Abitz on July 1, 1946. She preceded him in death on July 20, 2011.

Roy once described his best accomplishment as becoming a father, which his daughter Kathy and Patty will tell you are completely true. Roy was a gentle man making sure that waking up every day was known as a true blessing. The two things Roy never lacked were affection and the excitement of everyday life.

He worked side by side with his brothers at Metzker Plumbing and Heating for many years until his retirement in 1988. He then moved to Lakeland Florida to his retirement dream home.

Roy served in the United States Air Force during World War II and was stationed in the Southwest Pacific. Recently Roy found an article and letter to his mother and father announcing that Roy put in 225 flying hours and completed 32 missions. He was cited for meritorious achievements; the following is quoted from Lieutenant General George Kenney in a letter to Roy's parents and should be shared with all those who serve.

"I would like to tell you how genuinely proud I am to have men such as your son in my command, and how gratified I am to know that young Americans with such courage and resourcefulness are fighting our country's battle against the aggressor nations.
You, Mrs. Metzker have every reason to share that pride and gratification."

He was a member of the Clarence Bean – Warren George Lake Mills American Legion Post #67 for more than 50 years and a 60 year member of the Jefferson County Masonic Lodge #9 F.& A.M.. He loved any baseball, Packers and Badger Football/Basketball. If there was a game on, that is where you would find him.

Roy was the last one of his immediate family, also joining him in heaven are his brothers, Merlin and Marvin; sisters, Alice Kroneman and Mildred McMillen; and son-in-law, Tom Jones.

He is survived by his two daughters, Kathy (Barry) Denny of Iron Mountain, MI, Patty (Jeff) Schuenke of Johnson Creek; two granddaughters, Kristi (Brad) Cherney of Suamico, WI, Monica (Scott) Heather of Lake Mills; 7 great grandchildren, Kyrston, Nevaeh, Aydia, Michael, Avrial, Reese, Everett; other relatives and friends.

Private family services will be held.

Following cremation, Roy will, at his request be buried on July 20th, the fifth anniversary of his beloved Lorraine's passing.

If desired, memorials may be made to the Badger Honor Flight which Roy was proud and happy to have had the opportunity to go on.

www.claussenfuneralhome.com