Richard Desmond George Rollefson Obituary
Oconomowoc resident, Richard Desmond George "Dick" Rollefson, passed away on December 8, 2024, at the age of 83, after a brief illness.
Born on November 24, 1941, in Oconomowoc, Dick was the son of Desmond and Clara (Wester) Rollefson. He was a dedicated husband to his wife, Roxanne, a loving father to Ann (Michael Brancato) Rollefson, Daniel (Julie) Rollefson, Aaron (Emily Grochowski) Nelson, and Tali (Garrick) Zinsli. He was a cherished grandfather to Madelyn Hershberg, Rachel (Jordan Pintor) Hershberg, Grace Hershberg, Nicole (Kyle) McAtee, Claude (Jacki) Rollefson, Claire and Charlotte Zinsli. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Collin McAtee, Seagar, Markham, and Fern Rollefson.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Marilyn Arndt, Lila Snyder, Beverly Bruno, and Barbara Egbert. He is survived by his siblings: Shirley (David) Qualle, Karen (Gerald) Winkler, Donald (Sharon) Rollefson, and John (John Puhalla) Rollefson, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Dick graduated from Oconomowoc High School in the class of 1959. In 1962 he married Carol Miller and they raised their two children. Dick took pride in supporting his family, starting as a paper delivery boy on his bicycle to various delivery driver positions and as a dairy farmer. His professional career started when he began working for Carnation in Oconomowoc. His time with Carnation took him to Jacksonville IL, Milwaukee, and finally to Eau Claire until he retired as the Materials Manager of the Nutritional Products Division of Nestle USA in 1999 after 35 years.
In 1991 he married Roxanne Eggen. Together, they shared a love of singing, dance, and travel. Their adventures took them, mostly by motorhome, to all 50 U.S. states and many Canadian provinces. Their interest in travel and history took them to 28 countries around the world. They would be the first couple on the dance floor at any gathering. Singing in choir fostered numerous lifelong friendships in the communities they lived in. After retiring from Nestle, Dick worked part time with friends at Herm's Hammers which supported their Tuesday golf outings. Dick's biggest role after retirement was that of a proud Grandpa, making sure he was in attendance for as many concerts games and school activities as he could for all his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Dick's greatest joy was caring for his loved ones and contributing to his community. He was passionate about music, theater, and mentoring young people. He dedicated his time to helping build theatrical sets, directing children's choirs, participating in community theater productions, and volunteering with Junior Achievement. Dick was a supporter of the Altoona Music Boosters and the Oconomowoc High School band program as parent Band-Aid volunteer. Dick was also an active member of the Moose Lodge and the Rotary Club.
Where ever Dick lived, he sought the fellowship and music of his local Lutheran Church. He has been a member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church Oconomowoc WI, Dr. Martin Luther Church Oconomowoc WI, Faith Lutheran Church Jacksonville IL, Trinity Lutheran Church in Eau Claire WI, Holy Trinity in Dubuque IA, and Immanuel Lutheran Church in Watertown WI.
Memorial services will be held Saturday, January 11, 2025 at Our Savior's Lutheran Church 145 E. Lisbon Rd. Oconomowoc. Visitation will be held from 9am until time of service at 11am at church.
Dick's family suggests that if you wish to make a memorial in memory of him, please donate to your local school, church, community music or theatre program.
