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Gordon A. Roesch

Gordon A. Roesch, 77, died peacefully Friday, February 21, 2020, in Olathe, KS following a brief illness, but had been taken from us over time by Alzheimer’s. Gordon was born in Erie, PA on August 6, 1942 to Winnifred Lorraine (Carlson) Roesch and Harold Earl Roesch, both of whom preceded him in death. Gordon is survived by two younger brothers, Dennis Roesch and Roger Roesch. In 1961, Gordon met Erma Sue Benson of Minnesota when they both volunteered at a youth summer program in Jersey City, and they began their partnership together serving others and God. Gordon and Erma were married on August 15, 1964, and spent 55 years together until his passing with her by his side.

 

Gordon graduated from Thiel College in 1964, attended The Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago, and was ordained on June 7, 1968. He later received his Doctorate of Ministry from Brite Divinity School at Texas Christian University.

 

During his 51 years as a Lutheran minister, he and Erma served God through five ELCA congregations and their communities in Texas, Holy Trinity, Houston (1968-1974); Community of Hope, Ft. Worth (1975-1988); St. Andrew, Hurst (1988-1992); Walnut Hill, Dallas (1993-2002); and St. Matthew's, Ft. Worth (2002-2006).

 

In addition to his beloved wife, Erma Sue (Benson) Roesch, he leaves behind three children, Dawn Prince (Steve Goss); Shawna Bergman (Ron Bergman, Jr.); and Jared Roesch (Matt Braun). Mourning the loss of their PaPa are Nicole Prince (Malcolm Manning), Phillip Prince, Kiersten Bergman, and Christopher Bergman. His great granddaughter Riley Manning is also missing him, as are many cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, as well as Erma's mother and siblings.

 

A small memorial service in KS will be planned in the near future. In lieu of flowers, take the time to reach out to your families and others to share your and God’s love with them. Cards can be sent to the family at 1845 Summit St., Kansas City, MO 64108.
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Condolences

Debbie Carlson Funkhouser Feb 24, 2020

cousin ,Panama City ,Florida

I have many fond memories of Gordon taking us on tractor rides around the family "farm" outside of Erie when I was in elementary school. Our whole family was there for his ordination after seminary, and I remember how proud I was of him. He did a wonderful job pf God's word and spreading His love. May God grant all of peace at his passing, knowing he is with the Lord. And may God provide many beautiful memories you all made together. Love, Debbie

Lea Feb 26, 2020

cousin ,Crystal Lake ,Illinois

I did not grow up with Gordon but always looked up to him through the loving, admiring eyes of my wonderful Aunt Winnie, his mother. When I became an adult, I tried to attend any family event when Gordon and his family planned to attend all the way from Texas. He was able to provide guidance to me on adult issues touching my life when I did not even realize that I was seeking direction. What I remember from these times were that conversations were intentional and Gordon's eyes + attention were focused on me and my concerns--memorable. Grateful for his all too few touches on my life.

Dennis Roesch Feb 26, 2020

Brother ,Bradford ,Pennsylvania

Mary Kay and I wish to extend our deepest sympathies to Erma, Dawn and Steve, her children Nichole and Phillip, little Riley, Shawna, Ron, and their children Kiersten and Christopher, Jared and Matt. Your devotion to Gordon during his last few years shows what a wonderful family you are. Gordon was my "Big Brother" and always made time to include me and Roger in activities when we were growing up in Harborcreek. He always made me feel like I belonged in the gang playing baseball with the neighbors or going on bike trips. He taught me lessons without me realizing I was learning. Though we were apart later in our lives he was always there if I needed him. It was always worth the special effort whenever he and Erma were coming for a visit. I miss our phone conversations asking about family and hearing the delight in his voice telling me about his grandkids and progress he was making on the projects he was working on. He would listen intently when I would tell him about my family and what I was working on. Rest in Peace "Big Brother" Now you are with our Heavenly Father.

Bracken Judith Mar 01, 2020

Walnut Hill Lutheran Church member ,Dallas ,Texas

Dear Erma and family, I was so sorry to learn of Gordon’s passing. I had heard that he was declining in recent years. It must have been so difficult for you and your children. Now that Gordon is at peace, I pray that you and the children may now also have peace. With condolences, Judy BrackenuSY

stuart halpryn Sep 24, 2021

in his congregation at walnut hill ,fox river grove ,Illinois

my wife, anthea, and i are so sad to hear of pastor roesch's passing. he married us 27 years ago, was a mentor and guided me often. i have nothing but fond memories of him. i introduced him to the wonders of the internet, and he to faith in GOD. erma - my condolences to you and your families. my heart is heavy. all my best to you