Emmet J. Regan

Emmet James Regan, loving husband, father, grandfather and friend to many, died peacefully at home on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. He was 77.

Born in Highland Park on March 14, 1948, to Bartholomew and Mary Regan, he was one of nine children. He graduated from St. Rita's High School in Detroit in 1966. He served in the U.S. Army and was a Vietnam Veteran. He trained to become a journeyman pipefitter and was a local member of the Pipefitters Local 636. Proud of his Irish roots, Emmet treasured his trips to Ireland. He enjoyed working in his yard and spending time at their lake house in Northern Michigan.

On August 30, 1975, he married Marlene Alexander. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last summer. There was nothing more important to Emmet than his family. He is survived by his wife, Marlene, son Sean (Susie) and daughter Kathleen (Charles), and by his cherished grandchildren, Charlotte, Calliope and Michael; three brothers, Brendan (Vivian), Michael (Betty Ann), Thomas, and sister, Kathy. He was predeceased by four siblings, Cecelia Bastianelli, Mary Drotar, Jane Rine and Robert.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 17, 2026, 11AM until the Memorial Service at 3:30PM, at A.J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home (Vasu, Rodgers & Connell Chapel), 32515 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, 48073.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorial gifts in Emmet's honor to Detroit Christo Rey High School at the school's giving page, or by mail at, PO Box 09246, 1901 Springwells St., Detroit, MI 48209.