Rev. Angel Rojas, 68, of Coldwater died on Saturday, Nov. 24, 2012 at his home surrounded by his family.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, Dec. 15, 2012 at 2 p.m. at the Dearth Center in Coldwater, with Reverend Kenneth Wright officiating. Military honors will be provided by the Coldwater American Legion, Post #52 Drill Team and the Patriot Guard of Southern Michigan.

Following the memorial service there as a luncheon held at the Dearth Center provided by the Vietnam Veterans of America and the Church of the Holy Spirit.

Cremation has taken place according to Angel’s wishes.

Arrangements are being cared for by Dutcher Funeral Home.

Angel was born on Sept. 17, 1944 to Angel and Maria (Arvizu) Rojas of Douglas, Ariz. He married Carole Wormbrand Sprau on Sept. 18, 1974 in Safford, Ariz.

Mr. Rojas has been a Coldwater resident for 35 years. He started the Church of the Holy Spirit and was the Pastor there for 34 years. He registered the church in Washington, D.C. as founder and president alongside his wife Carole as co-founder and vice president.

He was a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America and he was heavily involved in starting the local Salvation Army, where he volunteered ringing the bell. While in high school, Angel played lead guitar with a well-known group called The Embers.

For his tireless efforts, Angel received the Bill Booth award. This is the highest award the Salvation Army gives out. Angel received his Doctorate Degree in Theology at Soul Arbor, Texas. State Senator Cameron Brown and State Rep. Bruce Caswell have applauded Angel for making a real difference in his community.

Angel loved making clocks in his spare time. For many years, he served as a volunteer Spanish interpreter to local law enforcement.

Angel served honorably as a Seaman in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War.

Angel is survived by his loving wife, Carole; his sons, Angel Alvarado (Melissa) Rojas of Bronson, Angel Romo Rojas of Mexico and Ricky (Mary) Sprau of New Mexico; his daughters, Marie Gutierrez of Coldwater, Brenda Wallen of Coldwater, Veronica Rojas of New Mexico and Nora Rojas of Arizona. He is also survived by his brothers, Fred Rojas of California and Ray and Hector Rojas of Safford; his sisters, Nora Jordan of Douglas and Frances (Martin) Aguirre of Arizona and New Mexico; along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Victor Rojas of Tucson; his brothers, Louis and Reuben Rojas, both were of Safford; six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.