Obituary: Loyd, René
Age 93
Born July 17, 1921 in Epinal, France, he spent his childhood and young adult life in the Vosges region of France.
One of the most meaningful memories we carry with us, was accompanying our father/grandfather back to his birthplace.
This family pilgrimage retraced René’s steps during WWII, starting in Saint-Die, France, where he escaped from the train bound for Germany (1941).
René was never recognized or honored for his service in the French Underground Movement and the French Army until his return to Epinal in 2010 at 89 years old!
This included a ceremony at the American Cemetery of Quéquement and an official reception by the Député-Mayor.
René left for the U.S. in 1949.
He met and married Zora Grace Clausen in 1951.
He worked to bring the rest of his family from France to Spokane, WA., through 1954, the same year his first child was born.
René and “Kitty” had three children and raised them in a loving home full of purpose and fun.
René was a wonderful provider, faithful husband and loving father, whose successful profession included three beauty salon’s and two beauty school’s (Select Coiffure) in Spokane, WA.
through 1978.
He took an early retirement to move, with Kitty, to Atlin, BC, Canada, where they both became landed immigrants then dual citizens of U.S./Canada.
It is here that they both thrived in their relationships with each other, friends and God Himself, until Kitty’s decline in health required their return to Spokane, WA.
in 2000.
René was the most loving and involved grandfather to his “favorite” (only) granddaughter, Sarah Grace and little “JoJo”.
He is survived by his adoring children (in order of age) Michelle (Shellie) Arger (Prokey), Jon Loyd (Beverley), Bruce Loyd (Marlene), grandchildren: Sarah Manus-McKay (Tom), Joseph Manus and Bostin Loyd; as well as six step grandchildren, two great (step) grandchildren and brother, Maurice Loyd (94 yrs.
old).
He was the last surviving uncle to many nieces and nephews, whom he loved and was proud of.
The family is forever grateful to his most recent community of friends at Evergreen Fountains, particularly his closest friend in deed and crime, Beverly Sellers, (aka Stinker Pot), and to the Hospice House of Spokane, who so beautifully tended to the dignity and peace of his final days.
Celebration of Life and a light luncheon, to be held at Evergreen Fountains, 1201 N. Evergreen Road, Spokane Valley, WA., October 20, 2014, at NOON, in the main dining room.
MAY HIS MEMORY BE ETERNAL !!
!