Roger Dale Gort

Roger Dale Gort, age 86, of Trufant, Michigan, passed away Monday, June 1, 2026 at his home under the loving care of his family and Corewell Health Hospice. The son of Arie & Eleanor Louise (Grover) Gort, he was born on April 11, 1940 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Roger served during the Cold War era in Germany. For over 40 years, Roger worked for Model Coverall Service in Grand Rapids, retiring as general manager. A gifted musician, Roger was a member of “The Townsmen” (who played at the very first Trufant Jubilee), playing bass guitar and saxophone as well as providing vocals.

Papa Roger loved his family fiercely. He never met a stranger, always had a story to tell, and could make any gathering more fun just by being there. He had a passion for music, especially George Jones, a love for cars and motorcycles, and a knack for making people smile. He was an avid fan of Detroit Lions football and had hoped to one day root for them in the Superbowl.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Arlyn Gort; three grandchildren, Carson Sherman, Willie Sherman, and Violet Sherman; and his life-long friend, Jess Ostrander.

Surviving are his children, Kimberly & Scott Petersen of Greenville, Pamela Gort-Papendick & Fred Papendick of Trufant, and Dennis & Angela Gort of Kentwood; a sister, Ardy Frey; seven grandchildren, Jamie Petersen & Chad Nummer, Aaron & Jodi Petersen, Jessika & Jayceon Carter, Katie Gort & Michael Lee, Cierra & Elijah Troost, Marissa & Joshua Tisnado, D.J. Gort & Jessika; twenty-four great-grandchildren; his beloved canine companion, Lillie; his extended family at the Trufant Tavern; and many other dear friends.

The family invites relatives and friends to join them as they celebrate the incredible life of Roger Gort beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at Petersen Park in downtown Trufant to honor a man who filled our lives with laughter, music, stories, and unforgettable memories.

Bring your favorite Roger tale, because we want to hear them all. We'll enjoy a BBQ, listen to some of Papa's favorite music, reminisce about the good times, and celebrate a life that was lived fully and loved deeply. Papa would not want a day of sadness. He would want family together, good food on the table, music playing, stories flowing, and plenty of laughs. We hope you'll join us as we remember, celebrate, and honor the amazing man who meant so much to so many.

To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Roger’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Christiansen’s Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Greenville, 616-754-5638.