Roger Edward Gildner

Roger Edward Gildner, age 82, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at MyMichigan Medical Center in West Branch, MI. He was born on April 7, 1943, in Detroit, MI, to Clifford and Doris (Cool) Gildner. Roger lived in West Branch his entire life.

Roger graduated from West Branch High School in 1961 and then enlisted in the United States Navy, serving honorably in Vietnam. After returning home, he dedicated himself to his career at the West Branch Concrete Block Company, where he worked tirelessly and eventually became a co-owner.

In addition to his business career, Roger had a deep passion for cattle farming on the family property. He spent countless hours putting up hay and working at Hillcrest Farms alongside his family. Known as a jack of all trades, Roger could always be counted on to lend his skills wherever they were needed.

Roger was a member of the Knights of Columbus #2022, where he proudly held the title of a 3rd degree knight. His passion for serving others extended beyond his job, as he also volunteered as a firefighter with the Ogemaw Fire Department, continuing the service he began during his time as a firefighter on the USS Waldron.

In addition to his career and service, Roger had a passion for the great outdoors. He enjoyed fishing and hunting, often embarking on memorable trips to Colorado and Canada. He cherished the thrill of racing cars in his early years at the West Branch Speedway and was one of the original members of the Frank Alley Snowmobile Club. These interests brought him immense joy and allowed him to forge lasting memories with family and friends.

Roger's legacy lives on through his loving wife of 22 years, Linda Gildner, and his children: Julie (Roger) Harger, Roger (Stacy) Gildner, Gail Gildner, Kari (Charles) Davenport, Mathew Gildner, Gregory (Renee) Brown, and Theresa (David) Jones. He was a proud grandfather to Kevin (Jill) Harger, Jonathon Harger, Courtney (Marc) Brock, Stephanie (Josh) Fales, Steven (Brooklyn Elenbass) Guntzviller, Hailey (Eric) Queener, Kelly (Andrew) Arbour, Malloree Guntzviller, Jackson Guntzviller, Ahrion Davenport, Alexander Davenport, Arabella Davenport, Harrison Gildner, Sophia Gildner, Justin Brown and Matthew Jones. Roger was also blessed with 13 great-grandchildren, who brought him endless joy and love.

He is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Clifford and Doris Gildner, his sister Joyce Alley, and his brother Alan Gildner.

A visitation will be held on Monday, February 16, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a Rosary service at 7:00 PM at the Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Homes in West Branch. Visitation will begin at St. Joseph Catholic Church in West Branch on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 10:00 AM with military honors starting at 10:45 AM and the funeral service at 11:00 AM. Father Al Pillarelli will officiate. Burial will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Roger Edward Gildner will be remembered as a man of integrity, compassion, and unwavering loyalty to his family and community.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation.

Online condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com