Roger L. Bolender

Roger Bolender, 69, of Russellville, Ohio, passed away Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at Hospice of Hope Inpatient at Adams County Regional Medical Center. He was born October 15, 1956, in Georgetown, Ohio, the son of the late Louis C. and Roberta (Stone) Bolender.

He is survived by his son, Brandon (Kelly) Bolender of Winchester, Ohio; his daughter, Kristen (Josh) Souder of West Union, Ohio; his brother, Randie (Jean) Bolender of Russellville, Ohio; and his sister, Patty (Jeff) Simpson of Winchester, Ohio. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren who were his pride and joy: Adrianne (Jaden) Utter, Emma (Jeff) Moran, Garett and Addison Moran, and Dawson, Rylan, and Kamree Souder. He is also survived by his nephew Adam (Aubrey) Bolender, nieces Ashley (Scott) Grazilla and Robyn Simpson, two great-nieces, Macy and Emery Bolender, and one great-nephew, Brant Bolender.

His family was the center of his world. His children and grandchildren will forever treasure the memories of simple, happy Saturday evenings spent together watching Hee Haw. In recent years, Roger found a special bond with his grandchildren, great nieces and great nephew through their shared love of basketball; whether he was cheering them on or supporting the Eastern Warriors, he was a devoted fan through and through.

Roger was a lifelong farmer who spent his life living and working on the family farm. He was the definition of a hard worker, a man whose life followed the rhythm of the seasons—working from sun up to sun down. But more than his work ethic, it was his spirit that defined him. He was a man of quiet strength: genuine, original, and deeply kind. As his daughter shares, Roger was a living representative of James 1:19—he was truly quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. To his neighbors, he was a constant, friendly presence, always ready with a wave as they passed by.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 5:00 – 8:00 PM, Friday, March 20, 2026, at Meeker Funeral Home, 308 N. Columbus St., Russellville, Ohio. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the funeral home, with Tom Claibourne officiating. Burial will follow at Linwood Cemetery in Russellville.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Hospice of Hope.

Roger’s legacy of kindness and his steady, peaceful nature will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Please sign his online tribute wall at www.meekerfuneralhomes.com

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