ROGER JOHN NILSEN

Roger John Nilsen of Hannaford ND passed away on May 27th, 2025.

Roger was born on August 15th, 1939, to John and Leone (Michalski) Nilsen in Nome ND.

Roger was raised in Nome ND where he graduated from Nome High School.

Roger was active in all sports while he was in school, he was especially proud of the fact that his high school basketball team made it to the ND State Basketball Tournament.

On September 19th, 1958, Roger married the love of his life Janice Marie Anderson. The two moved to Hannaford where they made their home. Roger spent the entirety of his working career with Inter Community Telephone Company.

Roger was an involved father. He was always present for whatever activity his children were in. He supported them in whatever their interests were. This is something that he continued with all his grandchildren.

Roger enjoyed the outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, camping and gardening.

Roger’s faith was an important part of his life. He was a member of Faith Lutheran Church, where he led by example. If there was someone in need, he was the first to help.

Residents of Hannaford will remember Roger for riding his bike and dressing up as Uncle Sam for the Bicentennial Parade (Janice played a huge role in that).

After retirement Roger and Janice spent many winters in Texas. They made lots of friends. During his time in Texas Roger enjoyed playing cards, visiting the wildlife reserves and walking on the beaches of South Padre Island.

Roger is survived by son, Timothy (Denise) Nilsen of New Salem ND; daughter, Brenda (Tom) Smargiassi of Pearl City IL; grandchildren, Danyal (Lucas) Kafer, Heidi ( Tanner ) Avelsgard, Monte ( LaiKyn ) Nilsen, John ( Jenna ) Nilsen, Bryant Smargiassi, Braden Smargiassi, Brock Smargiassi; seven great grandchildren; sisters Janice Plecity, Barbara (Curtis ) Roberts and several nieces and nephews.

Roger was proceeded in death by his wife Janice; son David; parents, John and Leone (Micalski); brothers – in – law Duane Plecity, Jerome Ritter and Howard Storhoff; sisters – in – law Helen Ann Storhoff and Lois Ritter.

A memorial service will be held Saturday May 31st, 2025, at 11am in Faith Lutheran Church, Hannaford ND.