Birth date: Jan 20, 1948 Death date: Jan 10, 2013
Age 64 of Paris, MI, passed away January 10, 2013. A funeral service will take place at 11:00am on Monday, January 21, at Crittenden-Hansen Funeral Home in Remus. Visitation will be held from 5:00pm to 8:00pm on Sunday, and again Read Obituary
My grandmother Kathleen Wager Chapelle and Rollie's grandfather, Herald (Hank) Wager were brother and sister. My dad and Rollie's mother, Betty Lou, were first cousins. Growing up I heard so many stories about the Wagers, the Farm and Remus. I had the fortunate pleasure of meeting Rollie and his beautiful family at a reunion that he hosted at his home several years ago. And wow, what a beautiful home and property. I found Rollie to be such a warm man and very proud of his family. I felt so welcomed as he eagerly shared old family photographs and a video of the Wager/Uebele family. I live in Singapore so can't attend his service but send much love and well wishes to Rollie's family
I met Rollie in 1993, when I interviewed for an internship at the Mecosta County Probation/Parole Office. I was the single parent of a three year old. Being a college town, there were others willing and eager to have the opportunity. I was selected, and thank God because I would have had to move my daughter and all our belongings just to complete the 200 hour intership required for graduation. I worked with Rollie for nearly two years.
I don't think many people realize what an accomplishment it is to be described as "jovial" after working 30 years for the Department of Corrections. You are reapeatedly exposed to the worse side of people. You are constantly challenged regarding the decisions you make. To take on an intern, adding yet another layer of scrutiny, is more than most people would be able to handle. Rollie was a man of honesty and integrity.
At the time I was poor, so Rollie got in touch with some local agencies to make sure my daughter had Christmas. He found some tires for my car, because I couldn't afford to do so and they were completely bald. After I completed the 200 hours, Rollie told me about a program through the Civil Service where I could get on the registry for employment, without waiting to complete the testing required at the time. I stayed on to completed the additional hours.
When I finished, the state was hiring many new agents but I couldn't interview because the only person trained to verify my hours and place me on the registry was on an extended leave of absence. Rollie made some calls and arranged an interview for me. I was subsequently offered a job. I watched other young agents wash out, because they did not have the training and experience I gained from working with Rollie. I could not have had a better teacher. Not long after I was hired, I learned not everybody maintained professional bounderies in the work place. Rollie traveled quit a distance to defend my character at a hearing. I have worked for the Department of Corrections for nearly 20 years now and I will never forget that this is the man who gave me the opportunity to make it happen.
I was deeply saddened when I heard the news of his death, even though I have not seen him in many years. My deepest condolences go out to his family. You are in my prayers.
Michelle Boucha
Stacy, Angie, Evan and Tyler, I was so sorry to hear of the passing of your Father and Grandfather. I lost my mother on Christmas Day so i can certainly understand what you are going through. I pray that God will bless all of you and that many happy memories of your loved one will bring you comfort.
Carol Jasso
St. Charles Church
First I was Rollie's neighbor, then the babysitter, then his friend. Being his friend was the most important. I considered him the brother I never had and my Dad was as proud of him and his accomplishments as he could have been of the son he never had!!! We stayed in touch, more because of Rollie then me, but knowing he's not going to stop by anymore really hurts!!! My thoughts & prayers are with Louann, Stacey & Angie and their family, Betty Lou, Sally and Melody. Such a GREAT loss for all of us who knew & loved Rollie!! I will remember you always my brotherly friend, Carol
