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R. " Scott" Scott

December 5, 2016
Kalamazoo, MI

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R. Scott (Roszel) born March 20, 1936 passed on December 5, 2016 unexpectedly at Borgess Hospital. Scott (as he was called) was preceded in death by; his Mother Helen, his Father Clarence, his daughter Heidi, his son Jeffry; brothers, Robert and Clarence K. (Bud), Father-in-Law Michael and Mother-in-Law Emilie Plankis. Scott is survived by his best friend and loving wife of 48 years Millie; brother Bruce, sisters Wilma, Connie, Edith, Shari and Irma, Betty Plankis Hamilton (William), Michael J. Plankis Jr. (Peggy), Richard Plankis (Nancy); his many loving nieces and nephews. Scott was born in Pontiac, MI. He would tell you he was born in the wrong century as he loved the Cowboy life. He became an illustrator after training at the American Academy of Art in Chicago. One of the top illustrators in Chicago and New York and winning many awards in that field. Scott moved to Kalamazoo in the late 60s and worked as an illustrator for the Upjohn Advertising Agency, but the commercial side of art was not what he felt passionate about. He and Millie moved to Santa Fe, NM and he started his fine art career there and soared into the Art World. Scott was a Nationally Renowned Western and Wildlife Artist, winning many Best of Shows and first place awards for his bronze sculptures and his paintings. He was most proud of creating a bronze sculpture titled "Bull Rider" for the Franklin Mint and having the opportunity to meet Norman Rockwell at the Mint. His Mom brought him back to Michigan, settling in Galesburg as it seemed like the half way point between Millie's family in Chicago and his in Pontiac. Once he built his studio he set down permanent roots here. He continued to travel West for his many shows sharing his beautiful work. Scott was a kind, generous and a giving man, he loved life, his friends, and especially his family. Scott would say about the ones that bought his work that they were never collectors to him but special friends and through the years he made many friends along the way. Scott will not only be missed by his family but by the Art world as he was really one of a kind. He didn't follow any rules or follow the trend of what was selling at the time, he worked from his heart and it showed in all that he was able to create. He told stories, sometimes he would think of a title first, like one of his sculptures called "8 Seconds of Insanity" a Rodeo event called Bull Riding. Many of his artist friends will tell you he was a very special man, he loved what he did and he loved being able to share his talent. He had goals and he reached all of them except one. Now that one will be reached. He wanted to be in the Cowboy Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City, OK. Some years back he painted a picture of the famous bull "Bodacious." It was bought by Jill and Bob Gerbach of Michigan. They have approached the Cowboy Hall of Fame to donate that painting. At a future date, that painting will be on display for all to appreciate. There is so much more that could be shared about this man. His heart and character has played a good part in the many lives he has touched through his work, and just by being himself. Scott's spirit and love touched those around him, even on the faintest of acquaintances. He will be very sorely missed, but the work he has done will live on over the years in the many homes around the world. Scott said he was tired and ready. He slipped away peacefully with his wife holding his hand, but through his work he will live on in all our lives.