Roy L. Applegate

Roy L. Applegate, 80, of West Lafayette, IN, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Saint Anthony Rehabilitation & Nursing Center with Jan, his wife of 54 years, by his side. Born in Clarksville, IN, on June 11, 1945, to Kenneth and Anna Harned Applegate, Roy grew up with three older siblings: Carl, Ann, and Kenneth Jr. As a teen, Roy was active in the Boy Scouts, achieving the rank of Eagle, and in his school band, where he played the tuba. He developed a love for math and science, which inspired him to pursue higher education. He became the first in his family to attend college, earning a B.A. in Mathematics and Physics in 1969 and a Master of Arts in Teaching in 1970, both from Indiana University. While in college, Roy met Janice (Jan) Smith, and they fell in love. The two were married in Rossville, GA, on April 3, 1971. Jan and Roy welcomed two children, Brent and Julie, and built a loving, supportive home. Roy began teaching physics at Harrison High School in 1970. In 1984, he was honored as Indiana's Outstanding Physics Teacher. Beyond the classroom, Roy was deeply involved with the Lafayette Symphony Orchestra for 25 years, playing tuba and serving in various roles, including librarian, stage manager, and board member. Roy loved the outdoors. An avid runner, he completed two marathons. His favorite place to be was Grindstone Lodge in nearby rural Fountain County, where he volunteered as caretaker in the 1990s, maintaining the property and hosting church groups and families. Roy loved to serve and always looked for ways to help others. After surviving a major stroke in 2002, Roy recovered and continued teaching until his retirement in 2004. In retirement, he remained active in the community, volunteering with organizations such as the Wa-ba-shik-a Nature Center, Wolf Park, and the Bach Chorale. Even as he faced ongoing health challenges, Roy remained a devoted and selfless husband, always supporting Jan in her travels and interests. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Carl; and his sister Ann. He is survived by his wife Jan; son Brent (Kathryn) and daughter Julie (Jim Monaghan); grandchildren John, Lucy, Josiah, and Katie; his brother Kenneth (Nancy); his sister-in-law Merle Woodlee (Rick); and several nieces and nephews. Roy's family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Saint Anthony and Guardian Angel Hospice for the support, kindness, and grace shown to Roy. A memorial service for family and friends will be held at Covenant Presbyterian Church on Friday, November 7th at 2:00 PM with a light reception to follow. A private committal service will be held at Tippecanoe Memory Gardens.