Roger Evans

Roger H. Evans, 79, of Neenah, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Roger was born February 4, 1947, to the late Howard and Verna (Reise) Evans. He spent the majority of his life in Neenah, proudly calling it home. For more than 15 years, he and his wife also treasured their time in Pelican Lake and Elcho, where they embraced the quiet beauty of the Northwoods and built lasting memories together.

On June 7, 1975, Roger married his partner in crime, Chris Leopold. Their marriage of over 50 years was a true partnership filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Together, they shared a passion for the outdoors and for exploring the world side by side.

Roger was a proud veteran who served his country during the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Purple Heart for his bravery and sacrifice. In June of 1969, he was honorably discharged from Fort Benning, Georgia. Roger carried his pride in serving his country throughout his life, and his family remained deeply grateful for his courage and dedication. In October of 2018, he proudly participated in an Honor Flight, an experience that meant a great deal to him as he stood alongside fellow veterans and was recognized for his service and sacrifice.

Roger was a dedicated and active member of the Paynes Point Hook and Spear Fishing Club, serving as president for a time and remaining deeply involved for many years. He volunteered generously and took great pride in supporting the club and its members, forming friendships that lasted a lifetime.

An avid outdoorsman, Roger especially loved ice fishing and sturgeon spearing, cherishing the early mornings on the ice and the thrill of the catch. He also enjoyed snowmobiling, embracing the snowy trails during Wisconsin winters. Whether on the ice or on the trail, Roger felt most at home outdoors.

Roger and Chris enjoyed camping everywhere they could, with special fondness for Boulder Junction and trips out West. They also traveled to the Caribbean, embracing new experiences while always happiest simply being together.

Roger was truly a social butterfly. He had a remarkable gift for conversation and connection—he could walk into a place he had never been before and leave as a friend to everyone in the room. His warm smile, quick wit, and genuine interest in others made people feel welcome and valued. Simply put, no one disliked Roger.

He was also incredibly talented with his hands. Just as he woodworked, he welded with skill and pride. Roger didn’t just make firewood—he built the wood processor himself and took the process from start to finish, from cutting and splitting logs to stacking them neatly for the season. He found satisfaction in hard work and took pride in creating and building things that would last. If something needed to be fixed, built, or improved, Roger was the one you called.

Roger also enjoyed landscaping and took particular pleasure in any opportunity to operate heavy machinery. He loved being behind the controls of a backhoe or other equipment, shaping the land and tackling big outdoor projects with enthusiasm and skill.

One of his favorite side hobbies was helping friends and family with home remodels and handy projects. Whether it was a small repair or a major renovation, you could always count on him for a helping hand. He gave his time generously and found joy in being there for the people he loved.

Roger will be remembered for his deep love of family, his dedication to his community, his unwavering passion for the outdoors, and his faithful service to his country. His steady presence, generous heart, and the many stories he shared will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Chris Evans; his children, Shelley (Brian) Jansen and Andy Evans; his grandchildren: Jordan Schaenzer, Megan Schaenzer (Mason Wolter), Carter Evans and Layla Evans; and his recently welcomed great-grandchild, Rhett Wolter; his siblings Judy (the late Ron) Babcock, Jean (the late Ron) Henderson, Joan (Laverne) Schwandt, Susan (the late Bill) Wolff, and Howard “Bud” Evans (Susan Bezotte). Roger is further survived by many nieces, nephews, friends, and other family members.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the DAV (Disabled American Veterans) in Roger’s name.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Westgor Funeral Home, 205 W Doty Ave, Neenah, WI 54956. A visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service.