Roger Franklin Flannery died unexpectedly at home, on October 10, 2026, at the age of 77, following a myriad of health issues. He received a kidney transplant in 2017, which allowed him to enjoy nearly ten additional years with his family and friends.

Roger was born on March 15, 1949, in Antigo, Wisconsin, to Arthur and Jean Flannery. His family moved to the Racine area, where he attended Park High School and was a starter on the basketball team. He attended Racine-Kenosha County Teachers College for one year before enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1969. He served in the Army until 1972, when he was honorably discharged.

He met the love of his life, Dianne, in Massachusetts; and three months later, on May 3, 1970, they were married in Lawrence, Massachusetts. They spent their newlywed years living in Tokyo, Japan, where he was stationed. They moved back to the Racine area after completing his service in the Army.

Roger and Dianne raised three daughters, whom he adored. For many years, he enjoyed frequent card parties with his seven siblings and their families, showing their children the vital importance of family. Roger retired from the City of Racine Wastewater Treatment Plant in 2009, where he had worked for 17 years as a wastewater utility clerk.

He enjoyed bowling in his early years and always wore his “perfect game” ring. He also enjoyed playing cards, especially with his good friend Linda Stephens at the Moose Lodge. The highlight of fall was playing fantasy football with his family and friends, especially his grandsons. He greatly enjoyed the rivalry among them.

Roger was an avid sports fan and never missed watching a Packers or Brewers game. He loved playing golf and spent many days on the courses in Racine County with his good friend Roger “Big Rog” Stephens. In addition, he enjoyed biweekly breakfast gatherings with his fellow Wastewater retirees.

He was preceded in death by his infant son, Ryan Flannery; his parents, Arthur and Jean Flannery; his sisters, Peggy Flannery and Jan Theilman; and his nephew, Rocko Theilman.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Dianne Flannery; his daughters, Kelly Flannery, Brie (Stephen) Flannery-Prendergast, and Erin (Christopher) Cimbalnik; his grandchildren, Tanner, Holden, and Sephina Ostrowski; Lola, Stella, and Simone Prendergast; Ella (Randy) Vargas, Quinn and Charlie Cimbalnik; his siblings, Dave (Vicki) Flannery, Jodie (Victor) Muller, Sheila (Robert) Scott, Mark Flannery, and Lora (Fred) Dietel; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please consider registering as an organ and tissue donor or making a memorial contribution to the American Kidney Fund.