Roger D VanRiper

Roger Dean VanRiper, age 78 of Nixa, Missouri, passed away April 11, 2024 at the Neighborhoods at Quail Creek, Springfield, Missouri, attended by CoxHealth at Home staff.  He was born August 13, 1945 in La Crosse, Wisconsin, the son of Robert and Eva LaVonne (Bacon).  

Roger, the son of Robert VanRiper and LaVonne (Bacon) VanRiper Stussy was born August 13, 1945 in LaCrosse, Wisconsin.  He was graduate of the Gays Mills High School.  Roger was a Vietnam Era Veteran serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Wasp.  During this period his ship picked up the Gemini Space Craft.  

On August 7, 1971 Roger married Brenda Francine Beauchamp of Kenosha, Wisconsin.  After retiring from J.I. Case Company in Racine, Wisconsin in 1998, the couple relocated Nixa, Missouri.  

Roger was a member of the American Legion for over 50 years and had been an officer in the Coast Guard Auxiliary on Table Rock Lake.  He was a previous member of the Ozark Antiques Car Club.  Roger loved to travel and he and Brenda had traveled to 48 states and abroad.

He enjoyed camping, woodworking, snowmobiling, restoring older vehicles, reading and horses.  Roger also belonged to two horse clubs and enjoyed winning numerous trophies with his horse.  

Roger is survived by his wife, Brenda; stepsister, Judy (Gibby) Stussy Botello from California; stepbrother, Gordon (Roxanne) Stussy; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins cherished by him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert VanRiper; his mother, LaVonne Bacon VanRiper Stussy; his stepfather, Carl Stussy; and his stepsister, Phyllis Stussy.

Roger will be buried at a later date in Gays Mills, Wisconsin.

A memorial service will be held at a later date in Nixa, Missouri.

Cremation rites will be accorded by Adams Crematory and arrangements are under direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa, Missouri.