Roger R. Pieper, age 71, of Merrill, died Thursday, January 26, 2017 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. He was born June 3, 1945 in Campbellsport, WI to the late Herbert and Delores (Hauser) Pieper. On September 20, 1969, Roger and Sandra Sarauer were united in marriage in Campbellsport, WI, a union that would last over 45 years. She preceded him in death on November 17, 2014.
Roger attended and graduated from Campbellsport High School. He was a gas line technician for Coastal Corporation for over 30 years. Roger was a kind and soft-spoken man that loved to be around his family and help them any way that he could. Roger and Sandy enjoyed taking the grandkids camping, fishing, and boating. Roger was a very avid bowler, and enjoyed being on leagues with Sandy. He was an avid Green Bay Packer fan, and would enjoy cheering them on. In his later years, Roger enjoyed spending some time just relaxing, watching some of his shows and hanging out with “Dukie”. Roger was a member and past president of the Eagles Club in Merrill, a member at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Merrill and he served in the United States National Guard. He was a hard-working man that was known to be self-less, strong and forgiving. He will be sadly missed.
Roger is survived by his three children: Tracy (Chris) Schmeltzer, Merrill, and their children; Samantha, Kalie (Mitch) Osness (with son: Parker Osness), Jared, Alexandra, Addison and Jacob; Tammy (Bob) Pyan, Merrill, and their children: Payton, Patience, Pierson, Prayla and Princeton; and Troy (fiancé: Jamie Pfaff) Pieper, Merrill, and their children: Bryanna, Bradyn, Brooklyn, Jace, Jensen, Koi and Chloe; three brothers: Gene (Sue) Pieper, FL, David Pieper, Oshkosh, and Dennis (Lisa) Pieper, Oshkosh; one sister: Nancy (Dick) Goebel, Eden, WI; numerous in-law’s who were very close with Roger and the beloved family dog, “Dukie”. He was preceded in death by his parents; Herbert and Delores Pieper and the love of his life; Sandy Pieper.
A Funeral Liturgy for Roger will be held on Tuesday, January 31, 2017 at 11am at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill. Father Chris Kemp will officiate. Visitation will be held on Monday, January 30, 2017 from 4-8pm at Waid Funeral Home, and again on Tuesday, January 31, 2017 from 10am until the time of the liturgy, also at the funeral home. Roger’s wishes were to be cremated, which will take place at a later date. Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.