Roger Dale Ames

Roger Dale Ames   

August 28, 1948 – December 24, 2024  

Roger Dale Ames entered the Kingdom of Heaven on December 24, 2024, following a sudden health event. He passed from his earthly life, surrounded by his beloved wife, Rita, and their children, Nicole and Alex.  

Roger was born on August 28, 1948, in Potosi, Wisconsin, the youngest child of Gertrude C. (Fecht) Ames. His three older brothers—Gernert, Udell, and Don—played a significant role in shaping his life and the man he became.

A graduate of Potosi High School, Class of 1966, Roger served his country honorably in the U.S. Navy from 1966 to 1969 during the Vietnam War. Within days of returning home, he met the love of his life, Rita Harrison, and they were married on August 29, 1970, beginning a beautiful 54-year journey together.  

Roger and Rita made their home in Potosi and later in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. Roger worked at the Dubuque Packing Company and as a carpenter. He ultimately served as a postal carrier in Cuba City and Prairie du Chien for 24 years, retiring in 2011.  

Roger was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He and Rita raised two children, Nicole and Alex. He cherished his role as “Grandpa Ames” to his six grandchildren—Ethan, Evan, and Joe Hall, and Malachi, Tim, and Allie Ames—who brought a great deal of joy and adventure to his life.  

Roger and Rita shared a passion for bowling, traveling together to numerous state and national tournaments over the years. In retirement, they also made time for memorable trips to Alaska, Panama, and the Grand Canyon. When they weren’t traveling, he could be found watching the Packers, Brewers, and Badgers. Roger enjoyed friendly competitions in games like beanbag and horseshoe and created lasting memories teaching Nicole and Alex various activities, from frisbee and ping pong to baseball and deer hunting. He and Nicole spent 30 years hunting together, while he and Alex bonded over bowling and games of bags.

A man of faith and community spirit, Roger served several years as a mass usher at St. Andrew-Thomas Parish and was a proud Life Member of the Potosi VFW.  

Those left to carry on his legacy are his loving wife, Rita; his children, Nicole (Jason) Hall and Alex (Brianna Seronko); and his grandchildren, Ethan, Evan, Joe, Malachi, Tim, and Allie. He will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law Wally and Dan Harrison, sisters-in-law Deanna Hoftender, Karla Pluemer, and Gloria Harrison, and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gertrude Ames and Bert Ames; his brothers, Gernert, Udell, and Donald Ames and their wives; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; and his beloved niece and goddaughter, Jacqueline (Ames) Redington.  

Roger’s life was one of service, love, and devotion to his family, faith, and community. His friends and family will remember his generous heart, warm spirit, and willingness to lend a helping hand.  He will be deeply missed by all who were honored to know him.  

A Celebration of Roger’s life will be Saturday, January 4, 2025, from 12:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. at the Potosi Saloon at 192 S. Main St., Potosi, WI 53820. Military Honors will be accorded by the Potosi VFW Honor Guard. Private inurnment will be held at a later date in the St. Thomas Cemetery in Potosi. Cards and memorials may be directed to Roger’s family. A portion will be donated to Rivers and Bluffs Animal Shelter (Prairie du Chien, WI) in Roger’s name. 

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