Roger Edward Brodbeck passed away on Friday September 12, 2025, at the age of 88. Beloved husband of the late Vernell C., nee Schaefer, Brodbeck; devoted father of Renee (Gary) Volz, the late Michael Brodbeck, Lisa (Brad) Kochner, the late Joseph (surviving Denise) Brodbeck, and Jennifer (Clay Boice) Brodbeck; cherished grandpa of Daren (Cortney) Volz, Douglas Volz, Matthew (Kellye) Brodbeck, Jodie (David) Lenau, Diana (Dan) Hogan, Meghan (Zach) Maurer, Emily (Rob) Kramer, Bradley Kochner, Katie (John) Herr, Kelsey (Kylee) Brodbeck, Lauren (Jacob) Sprouse, David Lankford, Lilly Boice, and Clayton Boice; blessed great-grandfather of Kathryn Brodbeck, Lillian Brodbeck, Bettye Brodbeck, Matthew Brodbeck Jr, Austin Morgan, Ellie Maurer, Scott Maurer, Avery Maurer, Dani Maurer, Brady Hogan, William Hogan, and Natalie Herr; treasured brother to sister Robin Scherle. Roger is also survived by many other relatives and dear friends.
Roger was born mid-May 1937 to parents the late Edward and Mildred, nee Ottenad, Brodbeck in St. Louis, Missouri. Roger was a dedicated educator whose influence reached countless students throughout his illustrious career in education. Roger worked in practically every aspect of the field, including roles as a school bus driver, teacher, coach, and ultimately as a superintendent. His commitment to education was profoundly evident when he returned to his alma mater, Hancock High School, where he played a pivotal role in the reconstruction of a new building and served as the superintendent from 1976 to 1989.
Education was not merely a profession for Roger; it was a passion that he carried with him throughout his life. He attended Hancock High School before progressing to the University of Missouri, where he earned both his Bachelor's and Master's Degrees. Roger remained an active member of Mizzou's Alumni Association, reflecting his deep-seated pride in his educational journey.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Roger was a person of warmth and generosity, known for being very loving and actively involved in his family's lives. He embraced opportunities to teach and mentor, always aiming to help future generations grow into their best selves. His personality shone through his dedication to his students and the community, making a lasting impact on all who had the privilege to know him.
Roger was also an avid fan of sports, particularly baseball and basketball, which he both played and taught with fervor. Outside of his educational pursuits, he found joy in the outdoors, tending to his garden and indulging in hunting, passions that brought him peace and fulfillment.
Roger Edward Brodbeck’s remarkable life and dedication to education and family will continue to inspire those who knew him and generations yet to come. He leaves behind a legacy of love, learning, and an unwavering commitment to helping others reach their potential.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Hancock High School Alumni Association in Roger’s honor.
A visitation for family and friends to gather and share memories will be held on Wednesday September 17 at John L. Ziegenhein & Sons South County Chapel from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. funeral service, also at the funeral home. Following the funeral ceremony, Roger will be interred in Mount Hope Cemetery & Mausoleum, alongside his beloved wife, the late Vernell.
To send flowers to the family in memory of Roger Edward Brodbeck, please visit our flower store.John L. Ziegenhein and Sons Funeral Homes - South County Chapel
John L. Ziegenhein and Sons Funeral Homes - South County Chapel
Mt. Hope Cemetery
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