Roger Neil Waisanen, 81, of Angora, MN passed away on Monday, May 6, 2024. Roger was born in Chisholm on December 15, 1942 to Neil and Bertha (Boutto) Waisanen. He attended school in Chisholm graduating from Chisholm High School. He was a golden glove boxer and a weight lifter. He served honorably in the Army for 2 years and was an expert rifleman. He married the love of his life Beatrice Rankila on June 27, 1970 in Cook, MN at the Lutheran Church. Roger worked as a mason and mined for 32 years before retiring.

Roger was an avid outdoorsman and an amazing trapper. He was an expert trapper for all who know him. He was a teacher of the craft of trapping and farming. He had great work ethics and farmed and trapped from sun up to sun down and beyond. He also enjoyed camping and spending time at the cabin in Side Lake. Above all Roger loved spending time with family. Fatherhood was endearing to him and we all knew we were one family enveloped by his love and guidance. Godspeed Roger! Spring Beaver!

Roger was preceded in death by his loving wife Beatrice; sons Billy Rutchasky, Danny Rutchasky, Wendell Rutchasky and Steven Rutchasky; sister Marcia; and nephews Brett and Forest.

Roger is survived by his daughter Lois Rutchasky (Tim) Reing; daughters-in-law Sharon, Patty, and Jeanine; brother Jack (Wendy) Waisanen; grandchildren: Jolene Gitzlaff (Jamie Blood), Jenny (Matt) Rae, Josh (Jill) Rutchasky, Jeremiah Reing, and Steven Reing; 7 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews; and his great sidekick; his dog Buddy.

There will be a Memorial Visitation on Friday, May 17 from 5-7pm at Mlaker Funeral Home. Prayer service will be held at 6:30 with Military Honors to follow.