ROLAND JESPERSEN

Roland L. Jespersen of Lake Andes, after a long illness passed away on Thursday, April 8, 2021 in his home. He was 85 years old. Born in Wagner, Roland resided on a farm four miles north of Wagner before moving to Lake Andes. He was predeceased by his loving parents, Helen E (Caldwell) and Elmer Jespersen and brother, Elmer "Gene" Jespersen.

For 64 years, Roland has been the dedicated husband of Norma (Martin) Jespersen. He was also the devoted father of Amy (Jespersen) Bjork and Alane Jespersen, proud grandfather to Evonne (Guidara) and her husband Adam Nelson and loving "Grampy" to great granddaughter, Felicity Nelson. Roland is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends.

While attending Wagner High School, Roland spent his summers working construction and helping on the family farm. Upon graduation, Roland farmed full time while his wife held a teaching job and they raised their two daughters. After going broke farming, Roland took a job as a school bus driver and then moved on to delivering propane for the Wagner Co-op. Roland and Norma moved to Lake Andes where he worked as an outdoor general maintenance service worker until his retirement from Northwestern Public Service.

Roland served as a volunteer EMT in Wagner and a volunteer firefighter in Lake Andes. He was also a member of the Wagner Rotary Club and attended the Lake Andes Presbyterian Church.

After retiring full time to the Cottage Bay area, he spent numerous hours helping to organize and establish the community. " Rollie's Park" stands as a tribute to his efforts and is now a landmark. In the later years of his retirement, Roland and Norma tirelessly collected thousands of cans to donate to the Lyons Club and later to the Rotary Club. He continued to repair and service appliances for friends and family.

He spent a lifetime as an avid fisherman, hunter, golfer and water sportsman and remained a fixture in the Cottage Bay area until his passing.

Friends and family are cordially invited to an open house to rejoice and reminisce Rollie on April 24 from 1-5 p.m. at 36 Northern Road, Lake Andes.