Roema Lee MacKenzie

Roema Lee MacKenzie, 90, of Novi, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026. She was born September 26, 1935, in Akron, Michigan, to Edward and Jennie (Maurich) Rohlfs. She graduated from Akron High School with the class of 1952. On July 27, 1957, she married Robert F. MacKenzie, and together they shared over 68 years of marriage, creating a life rooted in love and family.

After graduating from high school, Roema Lee continued her education at Alma College, where she pursued a double major in music and education. She dedicated most of her working years to teaching mathematics, finally retiring from Walled Lake Central High School in 1983. Never one to slow down, she embarked on a second career with Michigan Bell, where her passion for computers and sharp intellect led her to a role as Senior Systems Analyst. She worked there for 10 years before retiring again in 1993 to enjoy a well-earned life of leisure.

Roema Lee raised her family in Troy, Michigan and was a devoted member of University Presbyterian Church in Rochester Hills. After moving to others homes in Michigan and California, she relocated to Novi, Michigan to be near her family. She found great joy in playing bridge with friends and traveling alongside her family, especially to places such as Alaska, Russia, Spain, and Hawaii. A lifelong reader, she possessed a keen intellect and a deep interest in history, as well as a genuine curiosity about cultures around the world.

Roema Lee was a gifted musician whose instrument of choice was the piano. A true prodigy, she attended music camp each year at Interlochen, where her talent flourished and was widely recognized. Growing up in the country, she learned the value of hard work early in life, something she carried with her and passed down to her family, especially her grandsons. As they grew older, she gave them tasks around her home, teaching responsibility and the importance of diligence. A devoted grandmother, she was generous, loving, and deeply caring.

Roema Lee is survived by her beloved husband Robert MacKenzie; her sons, Stephen (Joanne) MacKenzie and Phillip (Cassandra Davis) MacKenzie; her grandsons, Alexander MacKenzie, Evan (Laura) MacKenzie, Ryan MacKenzie, and Cris MacKenzie; and her brother, Gary Rohlfs. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A private family graveside will be held at Brookside Cemetery in Fairgrove, Michigan.