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 help maintain the longevity of 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.

Special thanks to our 2022 Supporters:

• Vito A. Pampalona, owner of Vito Anthony Homes Rochester, MI
• City of Rochester
• City of Rochester Hills
• Oakland Township
• Veteran’s Tribute of Oakland Township

The Rochester Regional Chamber Foundation, a 501c3 organization dedicated to advancing leadership development and community engagement initiatives, announced the 2022 “Rochester Area Memorial Day Parade of Heroes” on Monday, May 30.

The RRC Foundation facilitated the parade on behalf of local municipalities including Rochester, Rochester Hills, Oakland Township, and with the vital support of the Veterans’ Tribute of Oakland Township.

Hosting an annual Memorial Day Parade should be our goal as leaders, parents, neighbors, friends, and community members to honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country in uniform. We must preserve this legacy to teach our children and future generations that our community cares. We care about those who have known true sacrifice and those who have never made it back home. We must preserve their memory and share the honor that is to serve and protect the freedoms of our county. 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.