Columbus, OH — Roger Roland, 87, of Grinnell, Iowa, died Nov. 7, 2024, at University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City.
Mr. Roland was born Nov. 2, 1937, in Oskaloosa, Iowa, to Eugene Arthur and Dollie S. (Adams). He was raised in What Cheer, Iowa, and graduated from What Cheer High School in 1955. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Iowa and proudly served his country in the United States Army as a private.
On May 28, 1961, he married Judith Carroll Heldenbrand at the United Methodist Church in What Cheer, beginning a partnership that would flourish for over six decades. The couple moved to Grinnell in 1962, where he began his accounting career at Blomgren and Briggs CPA. After achieving his CPA designation, he founded his own practice, Roger D. Roland CPA. In 1967, he partnered with John Ruchotzke, a collaboration that lasted until 1985 when Ed Dieleman joined, leading to the formation of Roland-Dieleman CPA. Mr. Roland’s deep commitment to his work meant that he never fully retired, embodying his lifelong passion for accounting.
He also cultivated a love for farming and horses. In 1967, Roger and Judy bought their first horse, marking the beginning of a cherished family involvement in harness racing.
He lived on the family farm west of Grinnell for 50 years, where he shared his passions and values with his loved ones. Known fondly as “Buster” by his grandchildren, he was a natural leader with a love for being in charge. His strong will, unyielding motivation, and love for delegating responsibilities became defining characteristics.
Family meant everything to Mr. Roland, and he delighted in holiday family trips, cheering on his favorite sports teams, and imparting wisdom to those around him. He will be deeply missed and remembered for his tenacity, warmth, and unwavering dedication to his family and community.
He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Judy; sons, Royal (Barbara) and Duane (Connie); grandchildren, Nick (Jessica), William (Gretchen), Tessa (JD) Perrin, Leah (Cole) Tokle, Ryan Rezabek, Janelle (Phillip) Rezabek, Hope (Ethan) Kirby, and Faith (Evan) Jones; great-grandchildren, Ethan, Delanie, Jackson, Virgil, Charlotte Perrin, Evelyn Perrin, Macy Tokle and soon-to-be baby Tokle; and his brother, Gene (Juanita). He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Dollie (Adams).
A funeral service will be held 10:30 a.m., Tuesday (Nov. 12), at the Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell. Interment will be in Hazelwood Cemetery in Grinnell. A luncheon will follow at the Poweshiek County Fairgrounds in Grinnell.
Visitation will begin at 12 p.m. on Monday (Nov. 11) at the Smith Funeral Home and Roger’s family will receive friends from 4-8 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Keokuk County Fair and mailed in care of the Smith Funeral Home and Crematory, P.O. Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.
Memories and condolences may be shared with Roger’s family online at www.smithfh.com.