Roger Eli Kinsey of Foley, Ala. was called to his heavenly home on Friday, May 29, 2015, surrounded by his devoted and loving wife, Marilyn Ruth, and his children.
Born Nov. 17, 1932, in Viola, Wisc. to Audrey Helen and Byron Elmer Kinsey, Roger worked on his father’s and grandfather’s dairy farms before joining the Navy. He later transitioned into the United States Air Force, trained to become a weather instructor, served one tour in Vietnam and retired in 1972 after 21 years of military service.
Roger’s family ties include his loving wife and sidekick, Marilyn S. Kinsey; his children, Robert “Bob” (Linda H.) Kinsey, Vicki (Randy) Mercer, Jodi (Rick) Wonser, Kelli D. Kinsey, Wendi (Willis L.) Kinsey; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; brother, Leroy Kinsey of Viola, Wisc.; sister, Kate (Gene) Harris of Viola, Wisc., brother, Joe (Shirley) Kinsey of Viola, Wisc.; beloved nephews, nieces and valued friends.
Family that greeted Roger into heaven are his cherished parents, Byron and Audrey Kinsey, Myron and Maggie Schlafer; daughter, Kelli D. Kinsey; brother-in-law, Michael Schlafer; sister-in-law, Jeanette Kinsey; and nephew, David Kinsey.
Roger and Marilyn enjoyed traveling across the United States, visiting their Wisconsin roots regularly, and ultimately savoring their move to Foley, Ala. in 1977.Together they were founding members of New Life in Christ Church, Foley, Ala., regular members of the Foley YMCA and both were actively involved in the local Klugg-Smith DAV Chapter 6, where Roger served several years as commander and chaplain.
Affectionately known as “Mr. Fix It,” Roger’s daughters often presented their dad’s willing hands with seemingly “un-repairable” items for family and friends far and wide.
Roger’s green thumb for tending a beautiful garden was shared by his wife, Marilyn “Red” and neighbor, “Mr. Green Jeans;” a large community of friends and family were grateful recipients of Roger’s bountiful vegetables and fruits.
Roger’s sense of humor, kind words, friendliness and generous spirit were a true reflection of Christ’s love for others.
Our “Roger Dodger” will always be in our hearts … ‘Til we meet again, salute to you, our special airman: “Pops ... We love you, a bushel and a Peck.”
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Foley Local DAV Chapter 6, Baldwin Community Hospice Program, the Foley YMCA Children’s Program, or the National Diabetes Association.
