Obituary of Roy Hall

Roy Hall, known for his dry sense of humor and acute sense of business, has died. Roy entertained guests at the Rustic Lodge for over thirty-two years. He was born and raised in Wartburg, Tennessee one of four children from the union of the late Sam and Nancy (Byrd) Hall. After honorably serving in the United States Army, Roy relocated to Pontiac, seeking work, meeting his partner for life, Johanna Bodnovich, and started his family. Roy had a very strong work ethic and was driven to succeed. Employed for a short time at General Motors, he began a decade long career as a journeyman carpenter, building and remodeling several of his family's homes over the years. Everything changed when Roy took the chance to fulfill his life-long dream of becoming a bar owner! In 1960, the couple bought the Rustic, moving to Erie, and the rest as they say is history. In addition to his passion for business, Roy loved animals, particularly race horses. For a decade the Rustic Stables owned nearly a dozen horses, traveling and racing the thoroughbred circuit. Roy had many other interests, an avid golfer, carding a hole in one in 1972. For many years he hosted the Rustic Lodge Golf Outings for patrons and friends. He loved growing grapes for his popular homemade wine, spending time working in his garden, cutting wood, and tending to his ducks, chickens, turkeys, goats, dogs, cats and horses! Roy loved sports and was a life-long Yankee fan. Family was most important to Roy and he was supportive to his children's endeavors! He was particularly fond of spending time with his grandson and great granddaughter. Roy Hall, age 87 died October 16, 2013 at home. In addition to his parents his passing was preceded by son Timothy; one sister; and two brothers. To cherish his memory Roy leaves his wife of sixty-four years: Johanna; son: Danny (Rene) Hall; daughters: Peggy and Tammy; daughter-in-law: Ginny; grandson: Timothy James; and great granddaughter: Mikayla. Friends may gather from 4:00pm until a Celebration of His Life at 7:00pm on Thursday, October 24th at Merkle Funeral Service, 9156 Summit in Erie. Guests are welcome to share stories and fond memories of Roy! Due to his struggle with failing eye sight, Roy has donated his body to the University of Michigan, Kellogg Eye Center, donations are suggested to this organization. Condolences at www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes Page.