Roger J. O’Gara, 79, died on Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023, at The Serenity House in Tomah.
He was born May 20, 1944, on the family farm to Gerald and Lucille (Hansen) O’Gara in the town of Wellington. Roger attended eight years at Slabtown Country School and was a member of the Wilton High School graduating class of 1962. In his youth, he enjoyed reading Mad Magazines, was an excellent baseball player, he enjoyed squirrel hunting, and listening to music, especially Bob Dylan. After high school, Roger continued his education, earning a degree from DeVry University in electronics. He took a job for the Motorola Company Chicago. He would work there until his retirement. Roger was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He served two years in Germany. He was assigned the job as a clerk because he knew how to type. Roger was united in marriage to Kathleen (Ryan) on July 20, 1984. They later divorced. Roger was member of the Hanson-Stark-Leith-Peth American Legion Post 508 and a member of the Honor Squad. He loved helping in the kitchen and assisting with fundraisers. Roger was a collector and found great pleasure in thrifting and going to garage sales. He had a special place in his heart for cats. He will be remembered for always wearing a red or blue bandana. He will be deeply missed by all that knew and loved him.
Roger is survived by one brother, Dick (Carolyn) O’Gara of New Richmond, Wis.; two sisters, Sharon (Joe) Degenhardt of Tomah and Mary (Jack) Mueller of Utica, Minn.; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Kathryn O’Gara; and his niece, Emily Michel.
Relatives and friends are invited for a celebration of Roger’s life on Saturday, May 11, from 12:15 to 3 p.m. at the Hanson-Stark-Leith-Peth American Legion Post American Legion Post 508, Walker Street, Wilton, WI 54670.
A graveside service will be Saturday, May 11, at 12 p.m. with Hanson-Stark-Leith-Peth military honors. The family requests that you wear a red or blue bandana in Roger’s honor. Online condolences may be given by visiting www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com. The Smith-Nelson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
