Roger Mensch

Roger Mensch, age 70 of Menno passed away unexpectedly Saturday, April 9, 2016 from injuries due to an accident.

On-line condolences may be sent at: www.opsahl-kostelfuneralhome.com. Pallbearers will be Mike Walter, Maynard Streyle, Dave Mensch, Jai Walter, Ron Gylfe and Duane Hoff.

Roger was born on July 25, 1945 to LaVerne and Hulda (Kirschenman) Mensch in Scotland, SD. He attended and graduated from Menno Public School. He served in the United States Navy from November 1, 1965 to October 11, 1969 as a Quarter Mastor aboard the USS HALSEY DLG CG 23, serving three tours in the Vietnam War. On August 9, 1968, he was united in marriage to Judy S. Holm in San Diego, CA. Roger and Judy with their daughter, Angela moved back to Menno, SD. They had three more children: Vickie, Connie and Curtis. He farmed and raised registered Hereford cattle. Roger was active in 4-H and mentored numerous families and his pride and joy was showing Hereford cattle with his children and grandchildren.

He was a very active member with the American Legion and was a commander of Post #152 for several years. Roger was elected to represent the State of South Dakota in Washington, D.C. for the Vietnam Wall War Memorial. He had a large passion for the Fourth of July parades and was known for his floats and was the coordinator of the Menno Fourth of July parade for 45 years. Roger had a love for football and was a huge Arizona Cardinal fan. He also had a passion for NASCAR and enjoyed the races down in Kansas City.

He leaves behind his mother Hulda (Kirschenman) Mensch of Menno, SD; Daughters: Angela Ackerman of St. Joseph, MO, Vickie Mensch-Geather of Wakonda, SD, and Connie Derousseau (fiancé,Tom Spielmann) of Sioux Falls, SD; a son, Curtis Mensch (Karla) of Ft. Campbell, KY; 10 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren and his significant other, Donna Langerock of Menno, SD.

His father LaVerne Mensch and his sister, Judy VonEye precede him in death.