Roger L. Tonsager

Roger L. Tonsager, age 97, passed away peacefully surrounded by family in the early hours of September 4, 2024.

Roger was born on April 22, 1927 to Martin and Luella Tonsager. Tragically, his mother and twin brother passed away soon after his birth. Subsequently, Roger’s infancy and childhood were spent with his maternal aunt, Molly (Amelia), her husband, Haagard Hall and their children.

Roger met his beloved wife, Joan, during High School and they were married for 73 years until her passing in 2020. He was also preceded in death by his grandson, Jeremy Lakin; his sister, Marion Erickson; and his brother, Donald Tonsager.

He is survived by his children, Luella (Jerry) Kramer, John (Mel) Tonsager, Cecelia (Bruce) Bauer, Kathy Lakin, Gregory (Val) Tonsager, Mary (Kevin) Fogarty, Madonna (Mike) Denley, Veronica (Lance) Johnstone, Peter (Janet) Tonsager; 24 grandchildren; 33 great grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, David and Wayne Tonsager; and his niece, Dedie (Bob) Hanson).

Roger enlisted in the Marine Corp towards the end of his High School years and was a proud veteran of WWII, having spent most of his service in occupied China.

After his retirement, he and Joan spent almost twenty winters in Mesa, AZ where he found his true avocation in the art of Lapidary. During those years he made hundreds of pieces of beautiful jewelry which he willingly gifted to family and friends.

Yet, his greatest joy was his grandchildren. As anyone who ever met him knows, he would praise their many accomplishments to all.

The family would like to give a special thanks to the Benedictine Senior Living Staff, the Allina Hospice Care Team and to his friend, Kent Karlsson “The Swede” who visited him often.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at 11 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, Hastings with visitation one hour prior to the time of the Mass. A visitation will also be held from 5-8 p.m. on Monday, September 9 at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, Hastings. Roger will be interred with his wife, Joan at Lakeside Cemetery, Hastings at a later date.