2024 PARADE CANCELED
Rochester Area Memorial Day Parade of Heroes
The Memorial Day Parade of Heroes is a great family-friendly event supported by many organizations in our community.
The RRC Foundation facilitates the parade on behalf of local municipalities including the City of Rochester and Rochester Hills.
May the legacy of our community be to uphold this unforgettable tradition, bring teachable moments to our children, and raise awareness about the meaning of Memorial Day.
The Rochester Regional Chamber Foundation, a 501c3 organization dedicated to advancing leadership development and community engagement initiatives.
In Collaboration With
Why a Parade? - History
The idea of a small, community-wide Memorial Day parade was organized for many years by John & Mary Modetz, longtime, residents and owners of Modetz Funeral Homes, along with co-chair Terri Williams. Then, in 2019, a small group of passionate community members brought the parade back for one year, led by Terry Gonser Director of The Veteran’s Tribute of Oakland County. During this family friendly event, several hundred residents gathered with flags and smiles to celebrate.
After the 2019 parade, Rochester City Council Member Mark Albrecht championed the idea of creating a sustainable parade model, bridging communities, and honoring local heroes during the Sister City Committee meetings with – Rochester Hills Council Members: David Blair, Theresa Mungioli & David Walker; along with Rochester Council Members: Amanda Harrison, Douglas Gould, & Mark Albrecht. As a result, the RRC Foundation was invited to manage logistics and facilitate the Memorial Day parade. Another key supporter in making the parade possible is Vito A. Pampalona, owner of Vito Anthony Homes and local decorated, disabled Vietnam Army Veteran.