Roger Colligan

Roger Ernest Colligan, 81, was surrounded by his wife and family at Theda Clark Medical Center when he went home to be with the Lord on May 6, 2006. His death was caused by a ruptured abdominal aortic vessel. He was born July 25, 1924, to Ernie and Olwyn (Hughes) Colligan at their home in the Village of Wild Rose. He enjoyed his childhood riding his father’s horses with many other children in the neighborhood. He graduated from Wild Rose High School in 1942 and participated in the State Track and Field Competition in Madison where he was awarded the gold medal in Discus and the silver medal in Shot Put. His photo as state champion is still displayed above the gymnasium door at the WRHS. On January 19, 1946, he was married to Norma Christine Dopp at the Dopp Methodist Church which was full of friends and relatives including his brothers, Donald (Red) and Delbert (Dub) and dearest friend, Norman Hoeft, all of whom had recently returned from active duty in WWII. Norma and Roger moved to Hillcrest Farm where they made happy memories for 60 years. They had two beautiful daughters, Christine Ann and Sally Sue. Roger spent 25 years as a farmer including 15 years of raising cucumbers and operating a receiving station with a large crew of migrant workers, many of whom became lifelong friends. For the past 35 years, he sold machinery to farmers far and wide and had an affinity for International tractors and equipment. His favorite pastimes included hunting, serving others and attending auctions which was his passion. He loved to spend his days buying and selling where he met many people who came to know and love him. He was known by many as “Bubba”, a name originating from his first grandchild who couldn’t pronounce Grandpa. Roger was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved daughter Sally, and his brothers. He is survived by his devoted wife, Norma, daughter Chris (John) Lauritzen, son-in-law Roger Carpenter, grandchildren Tracey (Jon) Kolbrek, Tom (Tanya) Lauritzen, Craig (Michelle) Carpenter, Melissa (Todd) Maas, and Michael Lauritzen. He was blessed with great-grandchildren Elena, Anders, Keely and Brynn Kolbrek; Brandon and Annabella Sally Maas; David, Adelaide, Hayden and Ethan Lauritzen. He is also survived by nephews, Dan (Gail) Colligan, Don (Nancy) Colligan, nieces Linda (Don) Evans, Colleen (David) Sommer, sisters-in-law Natalie Dyrbey and Maretta Dopp, other nieces, nephews, cousins and Norman Hoeft, who was like a brother to him. In joyful celebration of his life, visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 pm on Wednesday, May 10, 2006, at the United Methodist Church in Wild Rose where he was a member for 66 years. A memorial service will be Thursday at 1:00 pm with visitation at noon. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.

Roger Colligan

July 25, 1924 - May 6, 2006