Roger was born in French Camp, California to Andrew (Andy) and Emelia Gunsch. He had one brother. The family resided in Lodi, California where Roger graduated from Lodi Union High in 1957. After high school he joined the army. He later went to work at International Paper Company in Turlock. He retired in 2005 after 34 years.

Roger and his wife, Marie, were long-time members of First Southern Baptist Church of Ceres, where he was an usher. They lived in Turlock.

Roger had a passion for sailing and got a kick out of introducing people to sailing. He enjoyed ice cream and his wife’s homemade treats. Mostly, he loved spending time with family. 

He was preceded into heaven by his “pop” and mom. 

He is survived by his wife, Marie; his brother Claude Gunsch (Gini); his children Beverly Ortega (Gus), Dawn Anfuso (Ron), Michael Barnes (Holly), and Susan Shakeshaft (Terry); his grandchildren Christina, Tawnya, Jared, Jake, Jacob, Kyler, Jason and Caden; and great grandchildren Reece, Maverick and Devyn; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Private service to be held at Allen Mortuary in Turlock, Friday, February 5th, 2021 at 1:00 pm (to be livestreamed).