Roger R. Deutschlander

Roger R. Deutschlander, 88, of Lake Hallie, went home to be with his Savior on Thursday, September 4, 2025. He was under the loving care of his devoted wife, Joanne, and Heartland Hospice Care.

Roger was born on July 15, 1937, to Henry and Mary (Figura) Deutschlander in Thorp, WI. He attended Thorp High School from 1953 to 1955, and later completed his GED at CVTC. Roger proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1956 until his honorable discharge in 1958.

On August 13, 1960, Roger was united in marriage to the love of his life, Joanne Jalowitz, in Thorp, Wisconsin. Together they were blessed to share 65 wonderful years of marriage, raising nine children and building a life grounded in faith, family, and service. Roger's love for his family was surpassed only by his great love for the Lord.

In his early years, Roger worked as a handyman at a gas station in Thorp WI. He enjoyed serving customers, pumping gas, changing oil, and fixing cars—always eager to lend a helping hand. Later, he worked as a truck driver for G & K Trucking Company in Eau Claire, retiring in 1998.

In retirement, Roger found joy in gardening, caring for the birds, stray and wounded animals, and spending quality time with Joanne and his family. Roger faithfully set out food all over the yard to feed the birds and stray animals. Roger even took in a couple of stray cats and a dog and claimed them for himself. Roger loved being outdoors. He loved growing fruits and vegetables and took pride in meticulously maintaining the lawn. Roger found joy in the simple pleasures like motorcycle rides, fishing, car shows, working on cars, and collecting antiques. He was especially fond of muscle cars from his generation, often telling his kids, “They don’t make cars like they used to.” A lover of music, he cherished playing his harmonica—his favorite songs being Amazing Grace and You Are My Sunshine.

Above all, Roger had an unwavering deep faith. He loved Jesus and boldly shared the transformation he experienced through his relationship with Christ. His favorite Bible verse was John 14:6:“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”

Roger’s greatest desire was that his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren would come to know Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior and walk with God daily. His big personality, love for people, passion for justice, and unwavering faith will be deeply missed. Roger leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and faith that will live on in the hearts of his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joanne Deutschlander; his children: Glenn (Brenda) Deutschlander of Stacy, MN; Randy Deutschlander of Eau Claire; Mark (Lani) Deutschlander of Chippewa Falls; Lori (Daniel) Burns of Chippewa Falls; Greg (Angela) Deutschlander of Eau Claire; Scott (Stephanie) Deutschlander of Elk Mound; Lisa (Victor) Kapusinski of Neenah; Susan Kubaskie of Foster; and Jonathan Deutschlander of Eau Claire. He is also survived by eighteen grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and one sister, Jackie (Charlie) Pardus of La Habra, CA.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents; Henry and Mary Deutschlander, brothers, Leslie and Johnny Deutschlander; sisters, Carol (Deutschlander) Symbol, Cheryl Deutschlander, Marianne Deutschlander; son-in-law, Chris Kubaskie; and many other beloved relatives.

A private family graveside service will be held at Prairie View Cemetery in the Village of Lake Hallie. Pastor Larry Hoekstra from Osseo Community Church will officiate. Following the service a Military Honors will be conducted by the Chippewa Falls Patriotic Council.