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Roger Gentile Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Roger Gentile
Chris Holloway (Rumbleseat wine)
October 10, 2022
Roger was such a strong influence on me that still today I am in the wine industry. He was not just a mentor but a great friend over the years. Every time I saw him it was as if we had never been apart. He was always a joy to see and hang out with. I cannot believe it has been 8 years since his passing, although there is not a day that goes by that I do not think of him. He is truly missed in mine and I am sure others, worlds. Laura you are in my thoughts and prayers!
Phil Jursek
December 15, 2014
I was stunned to be informed of Roger's passing two months ago. After moving from Columbus I made infrequent trips to his store, sadly none recently.
Roger was a giant in his field. More than that he had the most winning personality, a welcoming smile, a real joie de vivre that was his characteristic. His advice about wine was unerring. I fondly remember our many get togethers at The Wine Sellers. My sincere condolences to Laura and Rog's family. May God rest his soul.
Jack Cory
November 4, 2014
I just learned of Roger's passing and was so sad to hear the news. I'll always remember the many Wine Dinners that Roger and I did together at the Bexley's Monk and Bistro Roti with great fondness. Just sharing the time together with Roger and Laura was always a pleasure. My deepest sympathies to Laura and the family
Phyllis Palmer
November 3, 2014
Roger stole my heart the first time I heard him speak. He will continue to be in my heart forever. Thank you dear friend, my life has been blessed to have known you!!! Rest in peace!
October 29, 2014
I grew up accross the street from Roger (Big Roger) with his boys Little Roger and Brian. He was a really fun person and always gave me a special greeting. I love that Jelly Bean was mentioned in his obituary. My thoughts are with you Brian, Mia and Roman. Many fond memories of you all.
Bryan and Diane Hickey
October 26, 2014
We thank God for the gift of Roger. He touched so many lives-even from great distance or passage of time. The entire Gentile family and loving wife Laura are extraordinarily special. When Roger said on the first day of first grade at St. Christopher School that he would be my friend forever, his extraordinary generosity, wit and humor had already taken hold. We wish for his beloved grandson, Roman, that he will have lifelong friends like his very special grandfather.
May God bless Laura, Brian, Mia, Roman, Susan, Chip, Louie and all their families, and Roger, Beanie, Little Rog, Ralph and Eleanor in heaven.
marveen fishman
October 25, 2014
So sad to learn of Roger's passing; so young. I will always remember when I was a kid, Gentile's monthly delivery of beer and pop to our home in University View, the Fishman house on Hess Blvd. It was a celebration for us kids to get to drink pop. Heaven is blessed to have you and I hope that you have all the wine you want there to celebrate! Save some for us!
Brent Stubbins
October 24, 2014
Roger taught wine tasting at OSU. I took his class starting in 1976. I joked I passed wine 1 but failed wine 2 five times. Laura, we think of you.
Abby Rose
October 23, 2014
Roger was one of my most favorite special events vendors. I had the pleasure of working with him for several years. He always led my clients down the right path with their wine selections and always came through for me in a pinch. Not to mention he was always caring, funny, and thoughtful. I am truly sorry to hear of his passing and wish his loved ones the best during this time.
Susan Paulus
October 23, 2014
Roger will be greatly missed. I always learned something from Roger every time I had the pleasure to be in his company.
Terri Bardi
October 23, 2014
Roger touched so many lives with his story telling, his quick wit, his ability to educate us all about wine, geography, and each other. He was truly one of a kind and a very special man. I will miss him in many ways; he could ALWAYS make me smile.
My deepest sympathies to Laura and his family. I hope knowing that Roger will forever hold a special place in the hearts of so many can give you some peace at this difficult time.
Leigh Ann Hieronymus
October 22, 2014
Roger was one of my father's two best friends. He is woven through my life, I looked up to him, respected him and consider him part of our family. So many memories have flooded my mind about Roger.
When I graduated from college, I was so honored and flattered that for my graduation gift, Roger threw a wine tasting party for myself and friends. He helped me step into adulthood, taught me so much and was always a calming presence in the room. I trusted and confided in him. Roger's memory will burn eternally in my heart.
Patricia Bendick
October 22, 2014
Roger will be truly missed - I have known Roger since the late 70's and took several of his mixology claases back then. And of course the wine dinners over the years at great Columbus local restaurants. We'll all miss his e-mail stories, new found wines and the humor he so loved to share.
Paul Huttlin
October 22, 2014
Roger Gentile was a great friend to Recreation Unlimited. He was always there to offer advice on Recreation Unlimited fundraising events, including the Flavors of the Vine Wine Tasting and Auction and Star Light, Star Night. His advice helped us to achieve great success in support of individuals with disabilities and health concerns. Our condolences to the Gentile Family and all who will feel his loss.
Shauna Chrisman
October 22, 2014
I met Roger 28 years ago when his Busch Ct. wine store was located across the street from our catering company. We had so much fun there and even more fun years later at the Flag Center store that I had to drive past on my way home. Needless to say, the car usually made a detour before arriving home. Laura, I'm so sorry for your (and everyone's) loss. I'll miss his wit and wisdom forever.
Robert Kraft
October 22, 2014
With his directness, his unique knowledge, his love of people, and his love of wine, Roger Gentile improved the lives of many, many people. Through teaching, newsletters, and a creative, adventurous approach to wine, Roger brought California, Italy, France, and Spain to Columbus for everyone to enjoy. Personally, he took the time to teach me how to appreciate wine – a gift I will always be grateful for. And how to appreciate wine with people. For more than a quarter of a century, he taught me. He introduced the unforgettable people of the wine world and their unforgettable wines to Columbus. And he remains one of the great treasures of this city.
Melinda Moore
October 21, 2014
I was one of those college kids who Roger gave a job to and were forever changed by the experience. He expanded my appreciation of the world and its people through wine, especially Italian wine. My life was made better and continues to be made better because of Roger's influence. My condolences to Laura and his entire family.
Chelsea Welen
October 21, 2014
Roger Gentile was sponky-witty-hysterical-kind-gentle and the most loving and giving person my husband and I ever knew. We had monthly dinners with he and Laura and it always consisted of laughter and fun. I cant thank Roger enough for all the good times we had and I know he will be there in spirit with us while we continue to make great memories. Love always- Chelsea and Chris Welen
Ron Cole
October 21, 2014
It is with great sadness that I have read of the passing of Roger. I was in his class (1964) not only for the graduating year but actually physically in his class. I will always remember him because he always had such a positive attitude. He will be surely missed. Prayers for all of his family. He will always be with us.
Cheryl Rodeheffer
October 21, 2014
One of my all-time favorite people who I was so lucky to know. His support meant everything to me when I was in the biz, and I'll always miss my chats with him & Laura. What a presence.
Rudy Basile
October 20, 2014
I legend in the wine world, he will be missed. Cin-Cin Roger!
Corkheads, Muga Party, 2001
Karen Chrestay
October 20, 2014
Roger came to one of our "Corkheads" wine-dinner gatherings several years ago where he introduced us to Muga and it's been a favorite ever since. We enjoyed many wine events and tastings around Columbus with Roger as host or speaker. He was so kind, gracious, and generous with his time and knowledge. He will be greatly missed. Our deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Christine Thurmon
October 20, 2014
To the Gentile family,
During my 18 years as a wine distributor in Ohio, I have many wonderful memories of Roger. From my first sales call to his wine shop, to his phone call to me upon hearing that I had sold the company. He truly was a fine man, considerate and fair to those he knew, knowledgeable and passionate about sharing his love of wine. I am saddened at his all to early passing.
October 19, 2014
To Laura and Roger's family -- I did not get to meet all of you but want to extend my deepest sympathies to you. Roger was indeed one of a kind and could always put a smile on your face. I am so glad I got to see him this summer when I had a work visit to Columbus. I will be opening my best bottle of wine this Thursday and toasting the person who helped moved me from white zinfandel to the finer things in wine! My prayers are with you. Becky E from Phoenix
Faye Muncie Hausfrau Haven
October 18, 2014
The Godfather of wine will be missed in this city. I met Roger 30 plus years ago. As a fellow wine proprietor, it will be hard to find someone with more passion and knowledge about wine than Roger. He was one of a kind.
Tom Bender
October 18, 2014
Good Guy, I Enjoyed Shopping At King and North Star..Thanks Roger...
Cam Hieronymus
October 18, 2014
Laura, I could write an epistle on our fun times together with you and Roger! I'm sure he's sharing a glass of wine with his two best friends, Cliff and Bob. My condolence to the Gentile Family. I'll be in touch. Stay strong.
Keith Pritchard
October 17, 2014
In the 35 years I have been in and around the business of wine our paths crossed occasionally and recently in a question on one of his articles. Roger always had passion for wine and humor for life. In all things, the word respect comes to mind when thinking of Roger.
October 17, 2014
Roger was our next door neighbor while my children were little. Our families were very close. I am so sad to hear about his passing and my heart aches for Brian especially who has lost his family over the last 2 years. I send my deepest sympathies to Laura as well.
Nancy and Bob Trout
Nancy Bentley
October 17, 2014
Roger was always so kind to me. It was a pleasure knowing him. Nancy, Kinkead Ridge
Pete Tiefenthaeler
October 17, 2014
I was so saddened to hear of Roger's passing, he will be missed by many.
Linda Switzer
October 17, 2014
R.I.P. kind & gentle man. John referred to your 'Ohio Wines' book frequently. You will be missed. Sincere condolences to the family. ~Linda Switzer & John Smither
October 17, 2014
Laura, we are so sorry about the passing of Roger. His personality was bigger than life, and we hope you find comfort in your many wonderful memories with him. Much Love, Jack and Cathy (Beans) Corcoran
Leslie Idding
October 17, 2014
I just heard today of Roger's passing. He will be missed and so will his witty humor. RIP dear Roger and enjoy seeing your Furbabies again.
John Roszkowski
October 17, 2014
Roger was a good guy. I wasn't the best employee, but he gave me a job that helped me get through school. I appreciated that, and regret that I never thanked him for it.
Chris Holloway
October 17, 2014
Roger you are loved and already missed. You were more than a mentor and friend, and you taught me so much more than just a love of wine. You touched so many lives in such a short time, you will never be forgotten. Thank You for being Roger!
Norma Lewis
October 17, 2014
My love and prayers to Laura, Susan, Lou & Barb, Chip & Kathy and all of the Gentile family. Roger was such a kind, humorous and loving man. We all will miss him so much. I will always have very fond memories of Roger. Love to you all. Norma
Jan Miles
October 17, 2014
Thank you Roger. Rest in peace.
Len Konich
October 17, 2014
I've known Roger for almost 40 years. He was a friend and trusted adviser. I will miss his weekly comments and that hearty laugh when something struck his fancy.
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