Herman John Roffi

Herman John Roffi, age 96, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025, surrounded by family and love.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, to Ticinese immigrants Pia and Angelo Roffi, Herman lived a rich and remarkable life. A proud Marine Corps veteran, he fought in all three major battles of the Korean War as a member of the famed Frozen Chosin. Before serving, he was a classically trained vocalist and violinist with dreams of playing major league baseball. He even tried out for the Dodgers and was recruited by the Marines to play ball before being called instead to the battlefield.

After his service, Herman's creative spirit flourished. A gifted painter, he contributed to some of Detroit's most iconic landmarks, including the gold-leaf ceiling of the Fisher Building. An entrepreneur at heart, he owned and operated both The Bullseye Bar and Dino's Pizza. When he eventually sold Dino's, he taught the new owner how to make pizza as part of the deal, laying the foundation for what would become Hungry Howie's.

Music was a lifelong passion. Herman sang in the St. Raphael's Choir for more than 40 years, sharing his rich voice in worship and celebration. For many years, he sang O Holy Night at Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, a tradition beloved by the parish and eagerly anticipated each holiday season. Beyond the church, he often delighted family and friends with spontaneous songs and wedding performances, filling every gathering with music and joy.

Herman loved golf, Detroit Tigers baseball, and being surrounded by family and friends. He was known for his beautiful voice, infectious laugh, and the way he could light up a room. To his grandchildren, "Papa" or "Pops" meant sweet nicknames, silly songs, and plenty of laughter. To his family, he was a strong presence and a constant source of love, always showing up in the ways that mattered most.

His life was rich with stories, including a legendary childhood fistfight with a neighborhood boy named Mike Ilitch, who later founded Little Caesars. Family lore insists that Herman won.

Herman is survived by his sister Doris Santini; daughters Debbie McGraw, Cindy (Martin) Gibaud, and Lori Gibaud; sons Mark (Charlene) and Mike (Sarah) Roffi; 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; nephew Jeff (Barbara) Santini; and niece Sandy (Eric) Eggly. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Noreen Roffi, his parents Pia and Angelo, and sons-in-law Bob Kreszyn and Joe Gibaud.

Those who knew Herman will remember his kindness, humor, compassion, and love for life. His voice may be silent now, but its echo will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Visitation Thursday 2-8pm with 6:30pm Eulogies and a 7pm Rosary at the John N. Santeiu & Son, Inc., 1139 N. Inkster Road, Garden City (between Ford Road and Cherry Hill). In state Friday 10:30am until the 11am Funeral Mass at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 31530 Beechwood, Garden City (at Merriman Road, 2 blocks north of Ford Rd.).