Roger Reese, 71

Roger Owen Reese, 71, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, January 26, 2013 at his home in Alexandria.

Roger was born April 1, 1941 to Levi and Sena (Benson) Reese, the youngest of nine children. He grew up in Hancock and graduated from Hancock High School in 1959. Following graduation, Roger enlisted in the Marines and served four years, stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA. After his discharge, Roger began working for Kleven Flooring in the Twin Cities with his brothers, Roy and Deane.

In July 1963, Roger met his future wife Betty at the Lakeside Ballroom in Glenwood, crossing the room to introduce himself to the pretty girl in the polka dot dress. Roger and Betty fell in love and were married in April 1964. They made their home in Savage, where their son Daniel was born.

In May 1966, Roger and Betty moved to Alexandria, where Roger began a 28-year career with the Alexandria Police Department. During his 28 years on the force, Roger served as patrolman, sergeant and captain. In 1968, daughter Deanne was born, and Roger and Betty moved to their hobby farm north of Alexandria. Roger (and family) kept busy on their hobby farm, raising in turn, chickens, geese, pigs, turkeys, goats, cows and plenty of garden vegetables, as well as tackling innumerable home remodeling projects.

In 1989, Roger and Betty realized their dream of “living on the lake” and built a home on Lake Ida. Following Roger’s retirement from the police force in 1994, he was able to spend time pursuing his lifelong interest in hunting and fishing, as well as watching the birds and the beautiful Lake Ida sunsets.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Levi and Sena; and by all of his siblings: his brothers, Herbert, Eldon, Warren, Francis, Roy, Deane and Kenneth; and his sister, Betty.

Roger is survived by and will be dearly missed by his wife, Betty (Hein) Reese; son, Daniel (Pamela) Reese of Alexandria; daughter, Deanne (Joseph Liljedahl) Reese of Montrose; grandchildren, Amanda and Jordan Reese, and Peter, Ariana and Noah Liljedahl; sisters-in-law, Karen, Ramona and Alice; and many nephews, nieces and extended family members.

A memorial service was held Friday, February 1 at Bethesda Lutheran Church in Alexandria with the Rev. Jerry Lanes officiating.

Arrangements are with Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria; www.andersonfuneral.net.

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