West 3755 US 2 - Spalding, Michigan 49886
In 1954, he married the former Elizabeth Savord at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Hermansville and was a lifelong resident of Hermansville.
Roger was employed by the Wisconsin Land & Lumber and Furblo Companies, both of Hermansville, and Harnischfeger Corporation in Escanaba. In 1964 he started his own welding business, subcontracting work from the Gafner Machine Company of Escanaba. In 1983, he reactivated the former IXL dry kilns in Hermansville, added a saw mill, plaining mill and lumber yard, forming Whitens Kiln & Lumber Co.
Roger loved music and learned to play several musical instruments. For many years he and his brothers had their own band, The Whitens Brothers, performing for many dances, weddings and other events. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Hermansville and a choir member for over 60 years as also a member of the Leo Floriano American Legion Post #340 of Hermansville, serving for over 60 years.
Roger is survived by five children: Alan (Nancy) of Hermansville, Russell (Cindy) of Powers, Bruce (Peggy Eichorn) of Hermansville, Marilyn (Mike Popp) of Libertyville, IL and Jalaine (Larry Bellmore) of Hermansville, eight grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and three brothers: Eugene, Robert and Donald of Hermansville.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, two brothers: William Jr. and Richard, and sister: Kathleen Menard.
Friends may call on Friday, June 29th, 2018 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (CST) at the Allo Coolman Funeral Home in Spalding . Military rites will immediately follow the visitation at the funeral home at 12:30 p.m. presented by the Floriano Stecker Kelly American Legion Post #340. Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Roger's life will follow at 1:30 p.m. at St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Hermansville with Fr. Jacek Wtyklo officiating. Burial will be in Meyer Township Cemetery.
Please visit www.allofh.com to send online condolences to his family.
The Allo Coolman Funeral Homes are assisting the Whitens family.
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"Rest in Peace, Roger. We will miss you. We feel so very blessed to have known you, your lovely wife, and your entire family. Thanks so very much for your Service, all the awesome music, your humor, wisdom and advice, and fresh garden "gifts". To your family and friends, we offer our prayers, comfort and condolences. Our Love and Respect always.....Warren and Gloria"
-Warren, Gloria, and Family -
"RIP Uncle Roger, You were one of my most favorite uncles. Your were always smiling, laughing, singing. You made everyone feel welcome. You left your children and grandchildren with a wonderful legacy (I believe they all inherited your laugh and for sure your love for music). Hugs and warm thoughts for Roger's family during this difficult time. Love, Vicki"
-Victoria Laupp -
"Condolences to all of the family. We enjoyed your music for so many years. You will be missed. Prayers"
-Leonard and Marian VanDrese -
"Our sympathy to you all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Peace,prayers and Love"
-Bill & Jeanette Wells -
"You were an awesome Dad and a great role model. You touched so many lives with your generosity and your incredible music. I think of you constantly and will miss you so much for the rest of my life. I love you forever, Marilyn"
-Marilyn Popp -
"My dearest friend. Today I found out and my heart dropped. You taught me a lot. We had so much fun together. The memories you have shared with me will stay forever in my heart. The time spent with you was the biggest blessing. You are loved, cherished and a great friend. Condolences to your lovely family. Love & Miss you Sheena G"
-Sheena -
"You taught me Andrea Bocelli, I souly thank you for the beauty of a great tender. He is listened all the time. Your family is so blessed to have you as a son,husband, father, and grandfather! God bless you may our father in heaven hold you tight. "
-Sheena
