Roy ’Slug’ Slaughenhoupt, 99, passed away peacefully in Grand Junction, Colorado, during the early morning hours of April 23, 2026.
Slug was born in Grand Junction on March 5, 1927. He spent most of his childhood and formative years in the Rollinsville - Nederland area where he met many lifelong friends.
Slug was drafted into the United States Army in May of 1945. After being trained as a radio operator he was stationed in Germany where he saw some action while searching out former Nazi officers.
After being discharged from the Army he went on to work at several jobs before returning to Nederland where he and his wife operated a couple of businesses. He then went to work for the Boulder Valley School District where he was charged with bus maintenance.
After retirement, Slug moved to Delta, Colorado, where he enjoyed retirement by attending auctions as well as doing crafts that he sold at various shows and events along with his longtime partner Lanna Smith.
In 2020 Slug was no longer able to live alone so he moved in with Lanna who continued to be his guide to necessary appointments as well as his caregiver. Her caring support allowed Slug to live independently for the last years of his life.
Slug was always fond of his ‘growing up time’ in Nederland. Family and family history were always very important to him. His extended family included many longtime friends that were not his relatives by blood, but they were his family by choice. As a result of being part of a long time pioneer family he had a true pioneer spirit. We are all fortunate to have had him as part of our lives and our community.
There will be a gathering of friends and family to celebrate the wonderful life of Roy 'Slug' Slaughenhoupt at a time and place to be determined.
