Rodger O. Pearson, age 91, of 7972 27.75 Lane in Rapid River, passed away Sunday, April 9, 2017 at OSF St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba. He was born on March 9, 1926 in Rapid River, the son of Olav and Lena Thunberg Pearson. Rodger graduated from Rapid River High School in 1944. Upon graduation, he served in the U.S. Army during WWII until he was honorably discharged on May 11, 1946. Rodger moved back to Rapid River and worked at Caswell's Service Station and later at Johnson's Standard Station, both in Rapid River. He then worked for the Delta County Road Commission until his retirement in 1989. Rodger married the former Alice E. Thorsen on June 1, 1957 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Stonington and she preceded him in death on June 22, 1987. The couple shared 30 years of marriage together and raised three children. Rodger was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Rapid River serving on the church council for many years, a member of the Rapid River American Legion, and the Stonington Booster Club. He enjoyed playing horseshoes in Stonington for many years, attending his grandchildren's events, and his family was very important to him. Rodger touched the lives of many people and will be missed.

Rodger O. Pearson is survived by son, Mark Pearson of Rapid River; daughters, Sandra (Steven) Martin of Rapid River, and Kim (Steven) Gerrits of Pulaski, WI; 4 grandchildren, Caitlin Martin, Cassandra Martin, Craig Martin, and Michaela Gerrits; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, Rodger was preceded in death by grandson, Gregory Martin; and brother, Ivar Pearson.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Thursday, April 13, 2017 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Rapid River. Funeral services celebrating the life of Rodger will follow at 12:00 p.m., Thursday, at Calvary Lutheran Church with Rev. Stephen Gauger officiating. A luncheon will be served afterward in the church fellowship hall. Burial and veteran's services will be conducted at 2:30 p.m., Thursday, at Lakewood Cemetery by the Rapid River American Legion Post #301.