Rory Joseph Girard

Rory Joseph Girard, beloved father, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, following a long and debilitating illness. Born on June 12, 1962, in Monroe, Michigan, Rory lived a life marked by dedication, hard work, and a deep love for family and the outdoors. Of all his loves & passions, his greatest pride and joy remain his remarkable sons, Cory Joseph and Brent Aaron. His greatest blessings. 

A 1981 graduate of Jefferson High School, Newport, Michigan, where he played football, Rory distinguished himself early on as a hardworking individual with a quick wit and outgoing spirit. His career was largely shaped by his time at Ford Motor Company, where he retired after years of devoted service, working in both Monroe, Michigan, and Lima, Ohio.

Rory had a profound passion for life’s simple pleasures, especially those connected to the great outdoors. His enthusiasm for hunting, fishing, shooting guns, 4-wheeling, snowmobiling and golfing reflected his adventurous spirit and love for nature. Many hunting trips were spent with family and friends on family land in St. Helen, Michigan; other hunts included stops in Saskatchewan, Quebec, Ontario in Canada, Tennessee, Arkansas, Ohio and many other parts of Michigan.  Boating, perch and walleye fishing on Lake Erie; and many many many straight through, non-stop roadtrips to Marathon Key, where his pops & grandparents had homes. Fishing was, of course, on the to-do list. He was an avid enthusiast of Harley motorcycles and proudly supported the University of Michigan, exclaiming “Go Blue!” with infectious enthusiasm. Rory delighted in the friendly competitiveness of cards & games with family and friends; he cherished social gatherings, savoring the joy found in the company of loved ones.  He thoroughly enjoyed music and music trivia, especially good old rock-n-roll.

Renowned as a talented carpenter and all-around handyman, Rory’s craftsmanship is evident in the many outdoor decks, patios, and remodeling projects he designed and built throughout his life. His retirement dream home “up north” stands as a testament to his skill and dedication. Known as a jack of all trades, Rory was always ready to lend a hand with various building projects, his toolbox a trusty companion stocked with Duct Tape and WD40, main staples of his problem-solving approach.

Rory is survived by his devoted sons Cory (Ashley Lyons) and Brent Girard; siblings Robert Jr. (Cindy), Carie (Douglas) Kuras, and Jerome (Cindy) Girard; as well as goddaughter Bianca Sharpe, nephews Nick, Nolan, and Derrick Fox, niece Jessica Girard. Filling Rory’s heart this past year with extra love & special times, Gunner, Kennedy, and Hayzlee Lyons. They brought joy and renewed purpose to Rory.

Rory had countless cousins & lifelong friends. He was a very social man who enjoyed the company of others and easily connected with people wherever he went. He was also a devoted companion to his beloved black lab, Remi, who provided great companionship in his retirement.

In the last few years, Rory began actively pursuing his faith. It was extremely important to him that he publicly declare his acceptance of Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Raised Catholic and baptized as an infant, his declaration of faith was formalized on March 8, 2026, when he was baptized as an adult at Cedar Creek Church in Toledo, Ohio.  A special thank you to Brian Kupniewski for his love & friendship, a true brother in Christ.

Rory was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Signe (Jacks), sister Cherie; and grandparents, Lloyd and Madeline Girard.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on May 2, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a Memorial Service at noon. The services will take place at The Allore Chapel - Martenson Family of Funeral Homes, located at 203 E Elm Ave, Monroe, MI 48162.

Rory’s life was a celebration of resilience, laughter, and commitment to those he loved. A special thank you to Heidi Girard, for her unwavering support and dedication to Rory’s care and well-being during his final season. For the kind & compassionate care from Hospice of NW Ohio, and the caregivers at Hampton Manor. Rory’s memory will endure in the hearts of all who knew him, a lasting tribute to a simple man who truly lived life to its fullest.