R. Camirand

On Monday May 4, 2020 Riford Arthur  ‘Art’ Camirand, 99, went to heaven which he sweetly anticipated and always pointed us to. He died peacefully in his sleep of natural causes.

Art is the son of Arthur and Clara Camirand, born in Detroit Mi on January 15, 1921. Art had a deep love for the Lord, his family and the US Navy. He would always greet you with a smile on his face and a conversation about Jesus proudly dressed in red, white and blue.

Art was a proud WWII veteran and National Treasure. He served in the US Navy aboard the USS Gatling (DD-651). He volunteered to serve in April 1944 and saw distinguished service in the pacific theater aboard the Gatling until he received an honorable discharge in 1946.

Upon returning from the war he married the love of his life Laura Rose of Bayport Mi. He enjoyed long and storied careers at Mechanics Laundry and Sveden House.

Art loved his family, community and country deeply. He was a long standing member of the Evangelical Free Church in Bay City Mi, Springhill Camps and Rainbow Lake Camp. He volunteered for many festivals in Bay City and was often recognized for dressing up as Uncle Sam.

Art was known as Bubba and Poppy by his Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren and Dad to many amazing friends he met along the way.

Art is survived by his daughter Sandy Camirand Blossom, Brother Ralph Camirand, Grandchildren Michael Blossom and wife Sarah, Laura Harte and husband Ashley, Jason Knipp and wife Deanna, Josh Knipp and wife Samantha, Arin Shupe and husband Paul, Mark Knipp, Steve Knipp and Adrian Ferguson. Great Grandchildren Malia, Calli, Caden and Evan Blossom, Axel and Cru Knipp, Sage and Levin Camirand, Brett and Ashlynn Harte, Selah, Luella and Layla Shupe as well as many nieces and nephews.

Art was was preceded in death by his parents, His loving wife of 75 years, Daughter Judy, Son Timmy, Son Mark, Daughter Becki (Camirand) Knipp, son in law Dale Knipp, daughter in law Gwen Fox, son in law Mike Blossom, grandson Jeremy Camirand and granddaughter Rachelle Blossom.

Arts family has honored his wishes and cremation has taken place. Art will be buried with full military honors on Monday August 10, 2020 in Holly Mi at the War Memorial Cemetary alongside his sweet bride. In Lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to Springhill Camps.

HANLIN FUNERAL HOME

Serving Since 1928