Roger G. Kendhammer

With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of Roger Gregory Kendhammer, 85, of La Crosse, who died on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at Gundersen Medical Center. Roger was born on February 28, 1940, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, to Albert and Henrietta (Hafner) Kendhammer. He was raised in the Goosetown area of La Crosse and was a proud member of the Aquinas High School Class of 1957.

Roger married Catherine Runge on August 5, 1961. They would have celebrated 64 years of marriage this August.

He spent many years working two jobs—delivering the daily news as a motor route driver for the La Crosse Tribune and working for the La Crosse News Agency. After the agency was acquired by St. Marie’s Gopher News, Roger continued as the general manager of the La Crosse branch until his retirement.

Roger was not one to sit still—he was always busy. If he wasn’t tending to his flowers or working in the yard, you could find him in his shop, working on one wood project or another. A man of many talents, Roger completed numerous remodeling projects over the years. Upon retirement, he and Cathy spent sixteen years wintering in St. George, Utah, where he developed a passion for creating pottery pieces for family and friends.

Roger cherished the time spent with his three grandchildren and was a constant presence in their lives—for that, we are deeply grateful.

He is survived by his wife, Catherine; his three children: Michael Kendhammer (fiancée Lori Vogel) of Florida, Jeffrey Kendhammer of La Crosse, and Renee (Jay) Hinytzke of Onalaska; and his three grandchildren: Christopher Hinytzke (Catherine Palmer) of San Luis Obispo, California, Caitlynn Hinytzke of Holmen, and Tyler Hinytzke (Isabella Finch) of Onalaska. He is also survived by his brother, Lawrence (Rose) Kendhammer of La Crosse; his sister, Marietta Buchner of Holmen; brother-in-law, Paul Seidel of Rice Lake; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Henrietta; his in-laws, Everette and Leonora Runge; his sister, Mary Lou Seidel; brother-in-law, Robert Seaquist; sister-in-law, Norma Fox; and brother-in-law, Buddy Fox.

In respect of Roger’s wishes, there will be no public service. A private family burial will take place on a future date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Gundersen Medical Foundation, the Mississippi Valley Conservancy, or a charitable organization of your choice.