He was born May 15, 1937 in Pontiac to Eldon and Eileen (Fritch) Hirstein. He married Dana Roehm on June 28, 1977 in Washington, IL, she survives.
Also surviving are his two daughters, Laura (Eric) Sollenberger of Brimfield and Linda (Walt) Gudgel of Pawnee, IL; three grandchildren, David Sollenberger, Alex and Lucas Gudgel; and two nieces, Tracey Joss of Peoria and Tammy Hirstein of Florida.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother Landis Hirstein.
Roger served in the U.S. Army and received his Master's Degree in Education from Illinois State University. He taught 5th and 6th grade at Armstrong and Glendale schools for over 31 years before retiring in 1994. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in East Peoria and of the Musician's Local 26. Roger learned to play piano when he was 18 and played for his fathers band the Eldon Hirstein Orchestra. After retirement Roger started his own band, the Senior Moments, and played at several area events and venue's.
Cremation will be accorded and a memorials service will be at 11:00 am on Tuesday, November 13, 2018 at the First United Methodist Church in East Peoria with visitation from 9 am until the start of the service. The Rev. Mary Arnold will officiate. Remmert Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church in East Peoria. Words of comfort can be shared with the family at www.remmertfuneralhome.com.
