Roger Pearson of Balsam Lake, WI, formerly of Minneapolis, MN, passed away on February 8, 2022, at age 95.

Roger was born May 6, 1926, in Minneapolis to Margaret and Swan Pearson. Raised in St. Anthony Village, he graduated from Edison High School. At 17, he began a 45-year career as a convention decorator at Brede, Inc. He served in the Korean War for two years. Roger married Louise Lavin on November 27, 1981. They settled in Balsam Lake, WI, and wintered in McAllen, TX.

Roger’s work at Brede involved truck driving, a career that suited him well, since he was a living GPS and able to list off the highways and turns to get anywhere in the country. He treated the family to many vacations around the US (driving, of course), and Roger and Lou visited all 50 states while traveling for business and pleasure! Very handy at construction, Roger used those skills to build a family cabin and a go-cart for his kids. He also taught his children how to walk on stilts and ride a bicycle backwards. He loved motorcycles and enjoyed giving his children rides on his Harley motorcycle that he bought as a teen. He was known to laugh along with his kids as they watched Road Runner cartoons on Saturday mornings. During retirement, Roger enjoyed golfing with his wife Lou, doing crossword puzzles, and visiting with family and friends.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and Swan; brother, Dale; and Lou’s children Scott and Teresa.

Roger is survived by his wife, Lou; his children Roger (Jeannie), Diane (Don) Sundquist, John (Diona), Lori (Doug) Rausch, and Lou’s daughter Kim Peterson; 11 combined grandchildren, and 9 combined great-grandchildren.

A private gathering to celebrate Roger’s life will be announced later.

Last Update: Feb 15, 2022 5:55 pm CST