LeRoy Edward Felan, age 81, of Tecumseh, MI, passed away at his home on Wednesday, October 8, 2025. He was born on December 28, 1943, in Wayne, MI, the oldest child of the late Corine Felan. He graduated from Wayne Memorial High School in 1962 and later earned a Bachelor’s Degree in teaching from Eastern Michigan University with a specialization in history.
In November 1969, he married Joy Roulo and they were married for 48 years until her death in 2018. Together, they had three children; James Felan, Joanna Felan, and Renee (Craig) Burck. In addition to his children, LeRoy is survived by his second wife, Tammy Lynn Czarniowski, and his grandchildren Jasmine Gramling, Brendan Kopke, Chase Findley, Scott Raleigh, and Olivia Burck.
He was the oldest of 12 including the late David (Barbara) Sears, Vicki Macias, Virginia Bernier, the late Moses (Connie) Sears, the late Valerie (Tom) Moore, Antonia (Rick) Gaspard, Rebecca Boykin, John DeLaCruz, Bruce DeLaCruz, Joe DeLaCruz, and James (Michele) DeLaCruz.
He was also preceded in death by his beloved grandmother, Angela Felan, who he considered his mom and whose love shaped his formative years.
He worked as a cleaner for 41 years at the Ford Rawsonville plant and often worked extra hours to provide for his family. He enjoyed the physical labor aspect of his job and measured others throughout his life by their work ethic. His favorite coworker, and best friend, was Wayne Holbrook.
When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed watching all of the Detroit sports teams, reading the Sunday comics, and traveling. He also enjoyed observing nature, especially in his later years, while living at “The Farm” that was previously owned by his in-laws, Ralph and Myrtie Roulo. He had a sharp wit and enjoyed debating about current events. He also enjoyed a good (and sometimes inappropriate) joke. He never met a stranger and would strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere. He rooted for the underdog and helped countless people over the years. And, some of his favorite places to visit were local Chinese restaurants where he enjoyed good food and making friends with the owners. He will be missed.
Visitation for LeRoy (aka “Mr. Leng Zai”) will take place from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the Tecumseh Chapel of Handler Funeral Homes. His funeral service will be held at the funeral home at 11:00 am on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, with an hour of visitation beginning at 10:00 am until the time of the service. Cremation will follow.