Roger Lee Sturgeon, 87, died late Sunday, December 28, 2025 at Carlisle Place where he had resided for three years.
He was born October 18, 1938 in Oklahoma to the late Elmer and Melba (Pense) Sturgeon. After graduating in 1956 from Wellston (Ohio) High School where he played football, Roger went to Heidelberg College, where he played football and graduated with a bachelor’s in education. He then moved to Bucyrus where he taught middle school science for seven years, then physical education before retiring in 1992. While at Bucyrus Schools, Roger coached high school football for 35 years, primarily as the Defensive Coordinator, and also helped as a 7th grade and JV basketball coach. He married the former Marlene Amos on July 27, 1977, sharing 33 years of marriage when she preceded him in death on October 28, 2010.
Outside of coaching and teaching, Roger will be remembered for his love of travel, dining out, and the game of golf. He played in various leagues and annual golf trips in the Carolinas, where as many holes were played from sun-up to sundown, brought fond memories. He had 5 holes in one at The Golf Club of Bucyrus (two on #18, two on #6, and one on #3) where he had been a member since 1963.
Roger is survived by stepchildren, Gina Baum and Jeff (Beth Ann) Konves; four grandchildren, Birdie Baum, Tina Turrin, Jake Konves, and Ben Konves; great granddaughter, Quinn; sister, Pamela (Chuck) Philpott; and brother, Greg (Pam) Sturgeon.
In addition to his parents and wife, Roger was preceded in death by brother, Jerry W. Sturgeon and his special friend, Willie Addison.
Roger will be laid to rest in Oakwood Cemetery. The family will host a gathering on Friday, January 9th from Noon to 3:00 pm in the Old 30 BBQ Banquet Room at the golf course. Food will be served and the family looks forward to seeing Roger’s former students, coaches, and friends reminisce about the “old ball coach” as his soul now gets a fresh set of downs.
Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider gifts to Alzheimer’s Association and they can be given at Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus. Memories and photos can be shared in the guestbook of Roger’s tribute page at www.wisefuneral.com.
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