Roger James LaMountain

Roger James LaMountain, son of Reginald and Florence (White) LaMountain, was born on December 20, 1937 in Essex, New York. He departed this life on October 22, 2022 at 1:14 AM in his home in Waynesville, Missouri, surrounded by his loving family. Roger had attained the age of 84 years, ten months, and two days. Roger grew up in Willsboro, New York. He had a personal relationship with Jesus Christ his Savior, and practiced his faith throughout his life as a Catholic. In his youth, he worked on his Grandpa Dean White’s farm harvesting maple sap to produce syrup and candy. In his teenage years, Roger worked on a dairy farm, and he also worked in logging with his Grandpa Joseph LaMountain. Roger joined the U.S. Army at the age of 20 in 1958 and served overseas in Korea. He achieved proficiency as a Marksman with the rifle, carbine, and pistol and received letters of commendation while in the Service. Roger was trained in masonry, close combat, code of conduct, survival training, military justice, and served as a Military Policeman. Roger served with distinction in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged at Fort Leonard Wood in 1961. Upon his discharge from the military, Pauline Gan caught his eye and stole his heart. Roger and Pauline were united in marriage on May 25, 1963 in Waynesville, Missouri, and to this union three children were born. Roger set about contributing to his community and made his living as a construction worker and electrician. In 1978, he started working as a mechanical and electrical technician at Fort Leonard Wood’s Daughtery Bowling Alley, retiring after 21 years. Roger wanted to stay productive after retirement. He returned to work in 2004 through 2014 as a tractor operator at Piney Valley Golf Course on Fort Leonard Wood. Roger was community-minded and was very concerned about the youth, acting as a positive role model, to guide them into becoming responsible citizens. He also volunteered his time as a Pulaski County Deputy Sheriff for 26 years, and as a Crocker City Police Officer for three years. He was a PAID-UP-FOR-LIFE member of the American Legion Post 331 for 40 years, and a PAID-LIFE member of 40/8 Post 460 for 35 years. Roger believed his most important area of service was through his local church, St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church, where he had been an active member since 1964. He served on the Church Board and was a Board Member of Resurrection Cemetery. Roger was always ready to give a helping hand, unselfishly providing grounds maintenance, electrical and mechanical repairs at the Church. Roger enjoyed hunting and fishing until his health declined. On one particular fishing trip, his son, young Randy, stirred up a yellow jacket nest and Roger ended up suffering the consequences, while young Randy escaped unscathed. He also enjoyed bowling and was quite proficient. Roger enjoyed square dancing with Pauline, as well as listening to music, and going to gospel singings. Roger enjoyed his family very much, especially holding the babies, and was present in their lives, as his children and grand children grew up. Roger is survived by his wife Pauline of 59 years, daughter Reda (Todd) Tomason of Lenexa, Kansas, daughter Robin (Paul) Smith of Huntsville, Alabama, and son Randy (Deborah) LaMountain of Crocker, Missouri. Grandchildren Aaron (Nicole) Tomason, Myra (Andrew) DeBlase, Philip (Kera) Smith, Jenna Smith, Savannah Smith, Lela (Corey) LaMountain, and Justin McKee. Great Grandchildren Nola Tomason, Alexander Niday, and Isabella Manjarrez, and his Sister-in-Law Shirley LaMountain, Nieces Sheila (Dana) Dea, Susan (Jack) Einrem, Sherlyn (Bill) Evans, and Nephew Steven LaMountain. And a host of other family and friends will mourn his passing. Roger is preceded in death by his parents Reginald and Florence LaMountain, and brother Reginald J. LaMountain Jr. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name are suggested to: Janet’s Wish, St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church, St. Robert Bellarmine Resurrection Cemetery, or Shriners Children’s Hospital. Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 27, 2022, in St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church. Burial will follow in Resurrection Cemetery, under the care and direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville/St. Robert. Visitation will be Wednesday evening, from 5 to 7 p.m. with prayer vigil to follow in the funeral home.

Roger James LaMountain

December 20, 1937 - October 22, 2022