Roger Karsten

Roger Karsten of Hampshire, Illinois passed away peacefully at home on August 29, 2024, while holding the hand of his loving wife Judy, surrounded by the comforting sounds of his favorite country music. Roger was born at his family home in Dundee, Illinois, on September 1, 1937, to Clarence and Gladys Karsten. He was raised in Elgin, Illinois, where he attended Elgin High School. He was a devoted husband to Judy, whom he married on February 16, 1985. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings: Robert (Marlene) Karsten, Shirley (Jack) Clark, Nancy Hall, Dennis (Evelyn) Karsten, Carol Searight, Mary VanWinkle, Mark Karsten and son-in-law Mike Hill. He leaves behind a loving family, including his wife of 39 years, Judith, brother Charles “Chuck” Karsten, his children Ellen Karsten, Sandie Hill, Rodney (Cindy) Karsten, Matthew (Samantha) Karsten, and Stepdaughter Candy Camacho. His legacy continues through his grandchildren Elliot, Jessica, Kordell, Emily, Anthony, Michael, Matthew, Mia, Alexis, Nathan, and Joshua, as well as 14 great-grandchildren. Roger proudly served his country in the United States 82nd Army Airborne Division. He was a distinguished 32nd degree Scottish Rite and 50-year member of the Masonic Dundee Lodge 190. His dedication to these associations demonstrated his commitment to service and community. Professionally, he was a retired semi-truck driver with a career spanning several companies including Borden Milk, Shedd Foods, and Burren Transfer. His hard work and dedication were evident throughout his many years on the road. In his leisure time, he enjoyed going to the casino with his wife, Judy. He had a passion for music and took great pleasure in watching and feeding the birds in his backyard, a simple joy that brought him much peace. Roger will be remembered for the heart he shared with his friends and family. He truly loved each of them- and if you knew him, you knew it. When his time came, he carried himself with dignity, strength, and full of love for those who went before him. He will be missed dearly. The family would like to extend a special thank-you to Roger’s great-grandson and buddy, Edgar Rosas, who spent countless weekends with him, sharing laughter, love, stories and friendship. His companionship brought immense joy to Roger’s life. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Roger can be made to the Hospice Foundation of America https://hospicefoundation.org/Donate His family encourages donations to honor his compassionate spirit and support others in their time of need. A Masonic funeral will be held in his honor at Hampshire Forest Preserve, Shelter 1, on September 7, 2024, at 2:00 PM. Following the services, a memorial luncheon will take place to celebrate Roger's life and legacy. Friends and family are invited to join in commemorating Roger's enduring spirit and contributions.

Roger Karsten

September 1, 1937 - August 29, 2024