Roger D. Gonnerman

Roger Dean Gonnerman, eternal optimist, lived a wonderful life. He was born to Raymond D. and Evelyn (Schlueter) Gonnerman on April 16th, 1938. He died unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 9th, 2014. Roger was raised on a farm outside of Gresham, NE where he cultivated a love for the outdoors and developed a thirst for adventure. After graduating from Gresham High, he spent a year at the University of Nebraska on a choral scholarship. In 1957 he joined the US Army, where he served until honorably discharged in 1959. He then moved to Wahoo where he worked at the missile base. It was in Wahoo where Roger met the love of his life, Elaine Hallberg. Roger and Elaine were married on June 10, 1962. They were blessed with three children; Gwynne, Beth and Eric. Roger was a devoted family man and tremendously proud of each of his children. Roger supported his family and love for travel through his business, Gonnerman Electric. Roger was a licensed pilot and delighted in flying his family on their travel adventures. Roger retired in 1998 and set about enjoying every minute of his newly free time. He was the #1 fan of every softball, basketball, baseball, soccer, volleyball and track team that any of his seven grandchildren ever played on. As a grandfather, Roger discovered his natural talent for spoiling and showered them with love and sweets at every opportunity. Roger was widely known for his kindness and generosity. Whenever someone asked how Roger was, his patented response was `wonderful`. And he truly meant it. In addition to his wonderful children, Roger's greatest gift to this world was his inspiring ability to find joy in everything he did. Roger Gonnerman ate dessert first, laughed easily and enjoyed the company of those he loved. Roger didn't sweat the small things but relished every little thing. Roger Gonnerman, devoted husband, loving father, doting grandfather lived a wonderful life. Roger's legacy will live on through his wife, Elaine Gonnerman, his daughters Gwynne Gonnerman of Blair, Beth (Ron) Volin of Lincoln, and son Eric (Joslynn) Gonnerman of Omaha. Seven grandchildren Christine (Perry) Streat, Stephanie (Eric) Monk, Ryan, Luke and Rachael Volin, Callan and Miran Gonnerman. Four great grandchildren Cambria, Savannah, Hudson and Pressley. Brother Eugene (Donna) Gonnerman and sister Marilyn Loontjer. Roger's faith and church were a cornerstone in his life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to the Our Redeemer Lutheran Church building fund.