Obituary of Roy Thomas Hallanger

Roy Thomas Hallanger (b. April 17, 1954, Minneapolis, MN) died on Thursday, July 21 in Minneapolis. His friends and family take comfort in knowing that Roy's last acts were to kiss his partner Félix and get on his bicycle for his daily commute as he did most days in any weather. Félix and Roy both learned from their parents to keep an open door policy at their home. Roy was known for his generosity, caring heart, and a quirky sense of humor. He particularly enjoyed time spent with his friends and family. He loved a good party, good beer, black coffee, the Minnesota Twins, playing the piano, and Frankster. Roy had many passions that can be categorized under "modes of transport” but he was crazy about trains. He often shared his love for them by texting Félix the numbers, destinations, and cargo of every train he saw He was especially passionate about cycling. Roy participated in bicycling events in many Gay Games, including the Vancouver, New York City, and Amsterdam games earning 5 medals. He also shared this passion for cycling through volunteering with the NorthStar Bike Fest for 16 years, most recently as Logistics Manager. Roy also pursued his passion for transportation through his career. A fastidiously safe driver, he was the software analyst for the Minneapolis Public Schools transportation department for over 30 years. Roy was also an active volunteer for political causes and campaigns related to LGBT equality, bicycle safety, environmental causes, and higher education. Roy served as a Graduation Coach with AchieveMpls, providing personalized support to Minneapolis Public Schools students to help them stay on track, graduate on time, and make a great plan for life after high school Roy was a graduate of Carlton College in Northfield, MN. He is survived by his partner of 28 years, Félix R. Hill Rosado; his sister, Joan Menocal; his niece Carmen Menocal and his nephew Alex Menocal. Roy is preceded in death by his parents Erling and Eunice Hallanger. A memorial service is scheduled Saturday, July 30, 3:00 PM at St Michael's Lutheran Church, 1660 West County Rd B, Roseville, MN. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made by check to: AchieveMPLS 111 Third Ave. S., Suite 5 Minneapolis, MN 55401 with the following memo: “In memory of Roy T Hallanger / Graduation Coaches”; or online at at: http://www.achievempls.org/donate-now. Please note Roy’s name in the Tribute section and add “Graduation Coaches” in the description line.