Roger L. Georgius

Roger Lewis Georgius was born on December 15, 1930, in Manilla, Iowa, to Roy and Augusta Ann (Jansen) Georgius. He grew up in Manilla and graduated from Manilla High School in 1949. After attending Simpson College for a year, he began working as a carpenter—a trade he would dedicate his life to.

On September 20, 1950, Roger was united in marriage with Della M. Rohde at the Methodist parsonage in Manilla. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Gail. Roger spent 40 years working for Rasmussen Lumber Co., building and shaping many structures in the Manilla area. In 1964, he built the family home where they would create lasting memories.

Roger was deeply involved in his community. He was a member of the United Church of Manilla and joined the Masonic Lodge in 1964 and the Shriners Hospital Club in 1993. He served on the Manilla School Board for nine years and was active in the Centennial Plus committee. Additionally, he spent six years as a Scout Master, helping guide and mentor young people.

A devoted sports fan, Roger rarely missed a game, especially when his grandchildren were playing. He took great joy in attending sporting events and cheering on his loved ones.

Roger passed away on Friday, March 7, 2025 at Crawford County Memorial Hospital in Denison, Iowa, having attained the age of 94 years, two months and 20 days.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Della Georgius in 2020; grandson, Nathan Chalberg; sister, Dorothy (Jerry) Conlin; brother, Robert (Betty) Georgius; sister-in-law LaVanna (Ray) Opperman; and parents-in-law, Claus and Emma Rohde.

Roger is survived by his daughter Gail and husband David Chalberg of Zumbrota, MN; grandson, Jonathan and wife Mary Chalberg; many cousins, nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at the Memorial Hall in Manilla. Memorials may be directed to the Shriners Children’s Hospital in Minneapolis, MN or the United Church of Manilla in Roger’s name.