Roger Ketelsen Obituary

Ketelsen, Roger R. born September 28, 1941, in Chicago, now of Bartlett, died on July 14th at Loyola Medical Center following a courageous battle with Leukemia. He is the dearest husband of Merle Ann (nee Grippe), loving father of Jeff (Tricia) and John, beloved stepfather of William Wagley and Eileen (Stephen) Ellenbecker, adored grandfather of Jim, Crystal, Richard and Ashley Ketelsen, Jeffry, Thomas and Kristopher Ketelsen, Alex and Elyse Wagley and Max and Kate Ellenbecker, dear brother-in-law of Janet Sheehan and William (Alice) Grippe. He was also a friend to former wife, Sue and a cherished uncle, nephew, cousin and friend to many. Preceded in death by his parents, Jens and Aune (Tyynella) Ketelsen and brother, Robert. He graduated from Bradley University in 1963 and began working at Chicago Boiler and Mechanical and retired as President of the Company in 2004. He was a longtime member of the international brotherhood of Boilmakers. Roger also owned and ran guardian heating and cooling now owned by his son John. Roger was an active member and a 20 year friend of Bill W. He loved biking, swimming, reading, fishing and boating. As an avid Civil War enthusiast, Roger traveled to many battlefields. He also traveled around the world by land and sea with his wife, Merle to whom he affectionately referred to as "The Peach". He was also generously and unquestionably there for all who needed a "Helping Hand". Visitation at Countryside Funeral Home, 950 S. Bartlett Rd. (at Stearns Rd), Bartlett, Sunday, 2 to 8 p.m. Lying-in-state Monday, from 9:30 a.m. until time of service 10 a.m., at First Congregational Church, 766 Graceland Ave.. Des Plaines. Interment following at Rosehill Cemetery in Chicago. Donations may be made to First Congregational Church General Fund. 630-289-7575