Roger John Voss, 75, lived a fulfilled life, going to see his redeemer and savior Jesus Christ on May 17, 2016, with the love of friends and family surrounding him. Roger entered his glory land peacefully with angels singing and loved ones applauding.

Roger was born on Jan. 25, 1940, (“1 month after Jesus”) to Viola and Carl Voss in Austin, Minnesota. Roger attended school in Austin where he was a star athlete in multiple sports. He was especially honored to be on the Austin state championship basketball team. Going on to the “U” of Colorado on a full scholarship, Roger excelled in basketball, still holding the record of most points (32) and most rebounds (28) in one game.

Roger met the love of his life, Jean Ann, who was also his cheerleader throughout their 54 years of marriage! Both Roger and Jean Ann began their teaching careers at Fort Osage High School in Independence, Missouri. Their final move was to La Crosse, Wisconsin, to be near family.

Roger had many accomplishments in life, but the most meaningful were being a dad and a husband. Roger adored, beyond belief, his beloved children Kim and Jon, his three grandchildren, Elijah (16), Zachary (14), and Isabella (9), and his favorite son-in-law Aaron. Many trips and creatively fun activities were relished by all.

Roger impacted countless lives in his 29 years of teaching physical education and coaching at Longfellow Middle School and teaching driver’s education at Central High School. He also served as a driver’s educational administrator for 10 years at Western Wisconsin Technical School.

Roger has truly put others ahead of himself especially during this last chapter in his life, always telling us he was doing good right up to his final breath. His saying was, “It only takes one day to die, and the rest of the days I am living.”

Roger’s strong faith in the Lord began at a young age. After sprouting potatoes for his Grandma Voss, he was given $1. Roger used his money to purchase a bible at the “five and dime” store. He told his wife that he used to go to his room and read his bible. If the chapter was unusually good, he would read the entire book!

After moving to La Crosse, Roger was an active servant and a wonderful friend to all at Olivet Lutheran Church. This has been witnessed by the constant flow of loved ones from Olivet streaming in to visit and help out. We are so grateful for all of the support from family and friends.

Roger delighted in telling people his wife owned a church in South Dakota. Actually, the church was co-owned in an abandoned town — Miranda, South Dakota. Roger enjoyed many pheasant hunting hosting’s at the church along with family gatherings — especially over the Fourth of July with a free flow of fire works!

Roger would want everyone to continue trusting in the Lord and giving thanks always. Lets help one another along the journey until our final destination with our best friend and savior, Jesus — King of Kings and Lord of Lords!

A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 22, 2016, at Olivet Lutheran Church 2100 Bainbridge St, La Crosse, WI 54603, with visitation from Noon until the time of the service.

In lieu of fresh cut flowers, plants are preferred.

In lieu of monetary gifts, donations to the church are preferred.

Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family.