Roger D. Ennis, a beloved member of the Mason City community, passed away on March 7, 2025, at the age of 91, surrounded by his family at the IOOF Home. His life and legacy will be honored at a funeral service on March 11, 2025, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, where Pastor Jane Harris will officiate. Following the service, Roger will be laid to rest at Memorial Park Cemetery. A visitation will be held prior to the service, allowing friends and loved ones to pay their respects. For those unable to attend in person, the services will be livestreamed on Major Erickson’s Facebook Page.
Born on February 13, 1934, in Mason City, Iowa, Roger Duane Ennis was the son of Harold and Lila Ennis. He spent his formative years in Mason City, attending local schools and graduating from Mason City High School in 1952. His life took a turn when he married his high school sweetheart, Beverly Wessels, in 1953 at Central Lutheran Church, now known as St. Paul Lutheran Church. Shortly after their marriage, Roger was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict, where he served as a Medical Records Specialist in Missouri and Germany. He always spoke with pride about his service to his country.
Upon completing his military service, Roger returned to North Iowa, where he dedicated himself to his work. He held positions at Eastern Iowa Breeders, Cerro Gordo Breeders Coop, and Clayton Equipment Corp, ultimately serving as a Territory Manager. Throughout his career, Roger made lasting connections with farmers and dealers, who held a special place in his heart. His love of travel took him and Beverly on many adventures, including trips to Germany and Europe, Hawaii, Alaska, and cruises through the Panama Canal and Caribbean. After retiring in 1991, they spent winters in Arizona, forming friendships with people from all over the U.S. and beyond.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Roger found joy in family, hobbies, and community involvement. He was an active member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and a proud life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Throughout his life, he maintained a beautiful home and yard, taking pride in his surroundings. Roger had a passion for cycling, photography, and spending time with loved ones. He cherished moments with family and friends, enjoying sports, conversation, and shared experiences.
Roger is survived by his children, Sue and Rick, as well as his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who meant the world to him. His memory will be carried on by his family, friends, and all those who were touched by his kindness and generosity. In his passing, he joins his beloved wife, Beverly, his parents, and his brother, R. Jay Ennis.
As the Mason City community mourns the loss of Roger D. Ennis, his legacy of service, love, and dedication lives on in the hearts of those who knew him. He will always be remembered for his warm smile, kind spirit, and unwavering commitment to his family, friends, and community. May his memory be a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing him.
