Roger E. Boettinger

Roger E. Boettinger, 81, of Mantoloking, New Jersey, passed away on the morning of August 10, 2025, while riding his motorcycle on his way to visit the cemetery of his beloved wife, Lynn. Even at 81, Roger remained a skilled and confident motorcyclist. He left this world doing something he truly loved. Born on September 30, 1943, in New Brunswick, NJ, Roger spent most of his life in Edison, New Jersey, where he built his career, raised his family, and formed lifelong friendships. Upon retiring, he fulfilled his dream of living down the shore with his wife, where the ocean breeze and coastal life suited his adventurous spirit. Roger lived a life of service, dedication, and quiet strength. He proudly served his country in the United States Army as a medic during the Korean War, bringing care and compassion to his fellow soldiers. During his service, Roger was held as a prisoner of war, a chapter of his life he rarely spoke about, but one that exemplified his resilience, courage, and unwavering spirit. His career with the Edison Police Department began in 1972. Over the course of three decades, Roger served in various capacities, culminating in his final position as Sergeant Detective in the Bureau of Criminal Investigation. He retired in 2002, deeply proud of his career and the work he had done to protect and serve his community. Roger's deepest fulfillment was found in the unwavering bond he shared with his wife, Lynn, a union marked by love and companionship, which remained the heart of his happiness and the guiding light of his life. Together, they were always up for the next adventure, whether buying a new boat or a new car, jetting off to one of the grandkids' softball, baseball, basketball or lacrosse games, or vacationing with the family (likely Disney!). They also loved the simple pleasures together like traveling for the day down to Atlantic City or having the kids and grandkids to the house for a day at the beach. Simply known as "Pop" to his children and grandchildren, that name became more than a title, it was his identity. Pop was incredibly proud of his grandchildren: Chelsie, Rebecca, Justin, Riley, and Zachary never missing a chance to support them. He traveled near and far to cheer them on, celebrate their milestones, and simply be there whenever he could. It was rare to see him without a hat, sweatshirt, or jacket proudly displaying one of their alma maters, always ready with a story to share or a reason to boast about their latest accomplishments. His love and devotion to his family were unmatched, and the memories he created as Pop will be cherished forever. Roger's passions reflected his adventurous and joyful spirit. He loved the open road on his motorcycle, the peace of being captain of the various boats he owned, and the beauty of living by the shore. He had a fondness for bingo, playing the "slots", and cheering for his beloved Philadelphia Phillies and Philadelphia Eagles. A man of deep faith, Roger was active in his church community at the Presbyterian Church of Toms River. He loved singing, whether it was in a church pew, on the porch, or while driving down the road. His joy for music was infectious, and he was known to break into song anywhere, simply because it made him happy. Despite the hardships that come with military service and police work, Roger was known by all who met him as the kindest of men, with a gentle soul that never wavered. His kindness, his story-telling, and his quiet humor touched friends, family, and strangers alike. Roger is predeceased by his beloved wife, Lynn Boettinger, who passed away in 2022 after being married for 41 beautiful years. He is also predeceased by his parents, Clifford and Ann Boettinger, and his sister, Barbara. He is survived by his brother Harry (Doris). He is also survived by his children: Sherry (Stash) and Rick (Colleen). He was a devoted Pop to Chelsie (Thomas), Rebecca (Devin), Justin, Riley, and Zachary. Pop was the proud great grandfather to Thomas, spending much of this past year making joyful memories together. Thomas brought a renewed light and laughter into his days. He is also the father to two sons, Jay and Scott, whose families have since expanded to include five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. In honor of Roger's life and legacy, his family kindly asks all drivers to be mindful of motorcycles on the road. Roger was an experienced and cautious rider, but even the most skilled motorcyclists are vulnerable. Please take an extra moment to look twice, check your blind spots, and share the road with care. A moment of attention can save a life. Let Roger's memory be a reminder to protect and respect those who ride - just as he always respected the road, and those he shared it with. Family and friends may visit on Friday, August 22, 2025 from 9:00 am to 11:30 am at Flynn and Son/Mitruska Funeral Home, 23 Ford Ave., Fords. A funeral service will begin at 11:30 am at the funeral home. In honor of his military service, Roger will be laid to rest at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Wrightstown, NJ. Together, Roger and Lynn, will rest eternally in the place they lovingly prepared as their final home. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Roger's memory to one of the following organizations, both meaningful to him and his values: Warrior Canine Connection – An organization that trains and places service dogs with wounded veterans, using the healing power of the human-animal bond. Proudly supported by Roger's beloved Philadelphia Phillies. Donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/w/Form/c1608d95-0444-45ca-b497-c1048555fc7a Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) Foundation – A world-renowned pediatric hospital dedicated to breakthroughs in care, research, and support for children and their families. Donations help CHOP continue to provide life-saving treatments to those in need. Donate here: https://www.chop.edu/giving