John A. Halpin II

HALPIN, JOHN ARTHUR II, of Waterford; passed away January 27, 2026, at the age of 77. A devoted and loving husband to Tammy Halpin; cherished father of Heather (Rob) Miller, John Halpin III, Jamie (Roger) McClellan, and Sarah (Adam Nelson) Halpin; proud and adoring grandfather of Kyle (Sarah), Kara (Bryce), Casey, Sadie, Remington, Torin, Bennett, and Merrick; dear brother of Debbie (late Jerry) Almas, Lisa (Gregg) Bembeneck, Jan (late Tom) Hatfield, and Vicki (Mike) Wambach. Preceded in death by his parents, John (Lee) Halpin, and Betty (Tom) Augello.

John was a proud Vietnam Veteran of the United States Army, serving honorably in the 82nd and 101st Airborne Division where he attained the rank of Sergeant (E-5). During his service, John earned numerous decorations, including the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Parachutist Badge, along with two overseas service bars - honors that reflected his courage, sacrifice, and commitment.

John had a lifelong love of roller skating and spent countless hours at the Rolladium in Waterford. His passion led him to national championship titles in both figure and speed skating, accomplishments he carried with quiet pride.

An entrepreneurial man of many talents and stories, John worked as a skilled carpenter and later as a long-distance truck driver, always taking pride in honest work and independence. He was well known and instantly recognizable by the distinct hats he wore - whether a cowboy hat, baseball hats proudly representing his military service, or his train conductor hat; accompanied by a pair of cowboy boots and his ever-present pipe, which became part of his distinctive look and demeanor.

Just as recognizable was his dry and witty sense of humor, delivered with perfect timing. Above all else, John will be remembered for his strength, individuality, and his unmistakable presence.

John will be inurned at Great Lakes National Cemetery, with a Celebration of Life to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his honor to DAV (Disabled American Veterans).