Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Roger Heeren Obituary
Roger Christopher Heeren, 50, passed away suddenly on September 17, 2020.
Born in Memphis, Tenn., Chris had been a Middle Tennessee resident since 1974. He attended St. Henry's school K-8th grade and was a 1988 graduate of Father Ryan High School. In 1992 Chris graduated from Western Kentucky University, where he was a proud member of Kappa Alpha fraternity. His friendships from college were strong and enduring for nearly 30 years after graduation.
Chris joined the Administrator In Training program with National HealthCare Co. in 1997 and quickly became one of the top administrators for NHC, working at NHC Springfield and then NHC Hendersonville. He was loved by his staff and residents and nominated for some of NHC's highest awards.
A music lover, Chris could often be found at one of Nashville's many music venues enjoying all the entertainment that the city offers. He enjoyed craft beers and cigars, Predators hockey and Titans football. His tight friendship circle met weekly for Bible study; "iron sharpens iron" was one of his favorite verses.
Chris was playful and goofy and always seemed to have a smile on his face. He loved big and he loved intensely, and he loved his children with fervor. He was preceded in death by his father, Roger Edward Heeren. He is survived by his mother, Catherine Bosi Heeren; his three children Sophia Marie, Ava Catherine and Edward Michael, and their mother, Jennifer; his brother, Jeffrey Craig (Ashley) Heeren; and two nephews, Archer Edward Heeren and Simon Bennett Heeren. He leaves behind a treasure trove of deep and strong friendships and he will be truly, sorely, deeply missed.
Services will be held at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Hendersonville, Tenn., on Friday, Sept. 25, with a visitation beginning at 10 a.m. and a funeral Mass at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Chris's name to the Tennessee Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association (alz.org) or the National Alliance on Mental Health (nami.org).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Roger Heeren
Sponsored by The Tennessean.
sharon honchell
October 2, 2020
I did not know roger Christopher Herron but worked with his mother, Cathy, at st Thomas hospital for many years. I do remember when her granddaughter, Sophia, was born. She was so excited! I left st Thomas and lost touch with Cathy. Last time saw Cathy was in Publix when she was happy to be retired and gave me an update on her grandchildren.
Cathy, you and your family have been in my thoughts and prayers since I saw his obituary.
Bonnie Cunliffe Lamping
September 25, 2020
Chris, you were full of life and laughter. Thank you for making high school fun and memorable with your funny antics and enduring smile. You were a friend to many. You are already missed. May you rest in peace and know that you were loved, admired, and appreciated by all.
Jason Brewer
September 24, 2020
I love you my brother. I am a better person because you were in my life. We have been through so much together and you have helped me through so my toughest times. It’s still hard to believe my dear friend is gone. I already feel like a piece of me has gone with you. You will be dearly missed.
Nancy and Jim Langdon
September 23, 2020
Jim and I remember Chris and Jeff well from our days at Father Ryan.
We extend our live and prayers.
Hugh and Kay Braddock
September 22, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. We knew Chris and family in Springfield and when they moved to Hendersonville. Hugh and I were always amazed at his energy and commitment to the residents in both cities. He was kind, patient and gentle with the residents and know he will be missed by them. Our hope is that the good memories will sustain all of the family and those who knew and loved him in the days ahead. We retired and moved out of state but will remember the good times when we were around Chris.
Peace, Hugh and Kay Braddock, Fairhope, Alabama
Ross Wetzel
September 21, 2020
I’m so very sorry to hear of Chris’s passing. He will be missed.
Rick Hendrickson
September 21, 2020
Chris was a great person. Intense, but caring and compassionate. To family and NHC family, our condolences. Rick and Trudy Hendrickson. Dawson Springs, KY.
Scott Toncray
September 21, 2020
Words can provide only a small comfort, but I want you to know how deeply I admired and loved Chris. He was a faithful brother until his death. His love for his family, friends, coworkers, and others is one component of his legacy. His greatest legacy is his children and I pray for the spirit to live on through them and that the pain and grief will eventually turn to comfort and the precious times will become fond memories that can be enjoyed. Praying for you all.
Lisa Spelta
September 20, 2020
I went to high school with Chris. He was the guy who was so nice to everyone. He always had a big smile, and was just a joy to be around. When I saw him in recent years, it was clear how much he loved his kids. He was always there for them. He loved them deeply, and I hope they know this! He will be missed by many, this loss is great for many. Prayers for his family.
Corey
September 20, 2020
Heartbroken to hear this sad news. Loved this young man dearly. I sure miss his laugh, his smile and his crazy antics. Rest easy Chris...
Melissa True
September 20, 2020
You were my soul brother in CYO and through Search... your friendship helped me so much through high school and I wish I had seen you recently in person to give you a big hug and tell you I love you. The world is less joyful without your infectious laugh.
Michael Hickernell
September 20, 2020
We were inseparable from 3rd grade until college. Though he wasn’t a main fixture in my life now, the world seems a little darker without Chris in it. One of those friendships that time did not diminish. I love you Chris and will miss you very much.
Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results
Make a Donation
in Roger Heeren's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for Roger Heeren
How to support Roger's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Roger Heeren's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
