Obituary of Roger Eugene Saarela

Roger Eugene Saarela, 72, passed away on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at Essentia Health of natural causes. He was born and raised in Duluth attending Denfeld High School. He served in the U.S. Army stationed in Korea during the Vietnam War. He was self-employed until he began sailing as a Steward for Great Lakes Fleet until his retirement. Roger was preceded in death by his parents, John H. Saarela and Lillian M (Aho) Saarela Hill; stepfather Arthur Hill; brother Randell; sister Jonlen Cooksey and father-in-law T.J. Eiken. He is survived by his wife Nora; daughter Shalee (Todd) and son Adam (Dawn); brothers Rod and Ross and mother-in-law Doris A. Eiken. Per Roger's request, no services will he held. Private Inurnment at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family would like to thank Dr. Borden, Dr. Nelson, Lauren, Chelsea, Linda and the entire Essentia staff for the compassionate care Roger received during his hospitalization. A memorial may be made in Roger's name to a Veteran's charity of the donors choosing.