Roger Charles Kunz passed away peacefully on June 12, 2023 at the age of 77 with his wife of 39 years, Marianne, and his two sons John (Heidi) and James (Kimberly) Balestrieri by his side. Roger was the last of the children of Louis and Amanda Kunz to pass on and is being welcomed by his brother Dennis and his sisters Doreen and Terry.
Roger was born on May 30, 1946 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. After graduating high school in Milwaukee, he served in the US Army as a paratrooper. Following his honorable discharge, Roger graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology. While at UWM, Roger joined the Vet’s Club and continued to attend monthly luncheons up to his death. It was through UWM and the Vet’s club that Roger made many lifelong friendships that led to many stories of adventures, misadventures, and experiences that he treasured.
Roger was hired into the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, fisheries management, where he had a long career, retiring in 2003. He received a commendation for his service to the State of Wisconsin from the Governor. Roger’s work in fisheries management benefited countless families, sportsmen and women in Wisconsin. Anyone who visited the DNR display at the Wisconsin State Fair and Milwaukee Sports show saw Roger’s work as he set up the native Wisconsin fish displays.
Roger and Marianne wed in 1984 and celebrated their 39th wedding anniversary shortly before his passing. He accepted Marianne’s two sons as his own and taught them to fish, hunt, and enjoy the beauty and wonder of nature. Roger was remarkably patient with the rambunctious boys and would choose to chop firewood rather than raise his voice with them. He chopped A LOT of firewood! Roger loved his grandchildren, Jason, Rose, Joshua, Lily, and Emma. He took them fishing at parks where he knew they stood a good chance of catching fish. Roger wasn’t wrong as they caught fish…and a sock. Roger’s smile when he talked about his grandkids said everything. He had a big heart and was greatly loved.
Roger’s favorite adventures were traveling with his wife, Marianne. Roger even traveled to Tanzania to visit a longtime friend who was working there. Some of Roger’s favorite things included hunting, fishing, golfing and reading. In his later years he enjoyed going to the park with his beloved golden retrievers, monthly Vet’s club lunch, spending time up north at the Clubhouse and keeping track of his favorite sports teams.
The love of the outdoors, family, and friends is what defined Roger and was his greatest joy. He will be greatly missed. A celebration of Roger’s life for family and friends will be scheduled at a later time.
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