Roger J. Viau

Roger “Duke” Joseph Viau, age 79, of Cornell passed away Tuesday, November 19, 2024 of a battle with leukemia at his home in Cornell. He was born April 17, 1945 in Escanaba and was the son of Wallace J. and Violet (Constantineau) Viau. Roger was employed as a welder in the manufacturing industry working at Harnishfeger Corporation in Escanaba, Lodal in Kingsford, Independent Machine Company, and R T Manufacturing in Escanaba until his retirement. He was an avid hunter, enjoying the fall deer hunting season and bird season. Roger also enjoyed rebuilding and working on cars. In the winter he loved to snowmobile.  Football season was a favorite to watch games with friends and family.

Roger is survived by son, Wallace Lawrence (Julie) Viau; grandchildren Erica and Hunter Viau; siblings Carolyn Jean "Tootsie" (Ken) Tomak, Julie Ann (Larry) Bush, Timothy Patrick (Jan) Viau, Debi Jo (Audie) Chiolo, and Darlene “Dolly” Ann (Tom) Nelson; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents Wallace J. Viau and Violet Butterbaugh, he was preceded in death by his brother Richard “Rick” Viau.

A family celebration of life gathering will be held next summer at Roger’s home in Cornell where Roger loved to deer hunt on and shot many trophy bucks.

Burial will take place in the Escanaba Township Cemetery in Flat Rock.

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