Roger Wayne Wartella, age 62, passed away Friday evening, November 27, 2020, at his home in Rapid River surrounded by his family.
Roger was born August 10, 1958, in St. Ignace, the son of Henry and Georgenia (Burton) Wartella. He was raised in Moran, MI and later graduated from Portland High School in Portland, MI. Following high school, Roger enlisted in the United States Army where he served until his honorable discharge. Roger worked various factory jobs before moving to the U.P. in 1994. He eventually acquired a custodial position at Rapid River High School where his years of dedication built strong relationships between the staff and students and where he will be deeply missed.
Roger’s greatest love in life was his children and grandchildren. His strength and drive began and ended in his love for them.
Survivors include:
Daughters: Ashley Carpenter
Lindsey (Alex) Constantino
Chelsey (Tyler) Floyd
Sons: Dylan and Jay Wartella
Grandchildren: Ava and Ryker Constantino
Sister: Shelby Wartella
Former Wife and Friend: Melissa Carpenter
Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Georgenia:
Siblings: Robert, Sheldon, Doug, Dennis, Diane, Bonita and Patricia
Roger’s family will receive friends on Thursday, from 2:00PM to 4:00PM, at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Military rites will follow visiting hours, at 4:00PM, at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone, with the Gladstone American Legion August Mattson Post #71 presiding. Funeral services will follow with Pastor William Rafuse officiating. Roger will be laid to rest in the Immaculate Conception Catholic Cemetery in Moran, MI. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting with arrangements.
Carolyn Cagle - Rapid Ruver, MI
My deepest sympathy to the family and prayers to all of them. He was a good friend and neighbor. Dylan was a good friend to Mykel Roberts, my grandson. I know Mykel would be their for Dylan but he is spending some time with his Dad.
Karla Constantino - Golden Valley, MN
Hi there my lovely family. I am so sorry for your loss. I also wish I could be there. Know you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
When I can see you, you all get a big hug from me. I am so thankful I made it to Chelsea’s wedding and one of Alex’s races to see you all and Roger. His smile that I saw everytime I saw him will always be remembered
Marsha & tom - Howell, Mi
Tom and I will always remember mac island and what a kind person we remember in you. Rest in peace my friend
Beth Larson - Gladstone , MI
Roger is going to be missed. I will miss all of our chats. And of coarse all of his teasing. He was always someone I could count on for help. My thoughts and prayers to the family. May you Rest In Peace Roger.
Tonya Neal - West Paducah, KY
Uncle Roger was close to our age.. He was a funny guy.. Great heart.. He will be missed.
Ashley carpenter - Escanaba, Mi
I love you dad, I will always remember the great memories we shared. You were the best dad in the world. I think about every second of the day. I cant believe this to be real. All I wanna do is give you a call and talk to you again. I miss you so much. I will always love you with my heart and soul.
Lindsey Constantino - Rapid River , Mi
The Man.
The Myth.
The Legend.
❤ My Dad. He was such an inspiration. He always knew how to make you smile and laugh. Jokes just came natural to him. We have so many amazing memories i will never forget. From taking us kids fishing, to always wanting to have a cook out, and so many in between. Growing up, everyone called me “Rogetta” because I was his twin. I’ve been told my whole life i look just like my dad. I already miss him so much.
Rest easy dad. I love you.
Charles Hickman - Rapid River, MI
Rodger was a great guy he was the janitor at our school and he was beloved by everyone i give my sympathy to the family of Rodger he was
the man
the myth
the legend
may he rest in piece
Melody Decaire - Escanaba, MI
Rodger was a great man loving father a wonderful friend he will truly be missed by many.