Roger Lee Gempeler, 75, of Monticello, passed away on Monday, January 23, 2023 at SSM Health Monroe Hospital. Roger was born on June 1, 1947 at St. Clare Hospital, the son of Leon and Margaret (Stricker) Gempeler. He attended Loveland Country School, Monticello schools, and was confirmed at Zwingli United Church of Christ. He worked on the family farm in Washington Township and also helped harvest pelts at the Aeberhard Mink Farm. He later was employed at Monroe Cheese Corp in Monticello for many years. Following retirement, Roger shoveled snow for many Monticello businesses and residents. He was a member of the Monticello Fire Department for several years and a proud member of the Monticello Lions Club where he received the Ray Hempel Fellowship Award for his extraordinary dedication, support, and service to others. Roger enjoyed working at the Lion’s cheese curd stand during Monticello Homecoming and in 2015 he was honored to be named the Grand Marshall of the weekend celebration. One of his main passions was golfing at area courses and in his younger years he enjoyed playing in pool league. He always liked visiting with people at the M&M Café.
Roger is survived by his siblings, RoxAnn Witkowski of Hilton Head Island, S.C., Ron Gempeler of Brodhead, Rick (Deb) Gempeler of Oshkosh, Reyne (Stacey) Phillips of Browntown; and several nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Leon in 2012; and mother, Margaret in 2014.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 30, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., at Zwingli United Church of Christ, Monticello, with Rev. Lance Smith and Gary Neuenschwander officiating. Interment will follow in Highland Cemetery, Monticello. Visitation will be at the church on Sunday, January 29, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established in Roger’s name for the Monticello Lion’s Club and Monticello Fire Department. The NEWCOMER FUNERAL HOME, Monroe, is assisting the family. Condolences may be shared at www.newcomerfuneralhome.net
