Dennis R. Roeder

Dennis Richard Roeder was born in Chicago, Illinois, on June 1, 1941, and died October 26, 2025, in Columbus, Ohio. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of nearly 55 years Doris Zulauf Roeder (aka “Dede”), and parents Helen and Alvin Roeder. He leaves behind his children Eric and Amy Roeder, their spouses Emily Roeder and Edward Read, and (by Eric) grandchildren Amber, Dakota, and Christian, and great-grandson Isaiah, in addition to his younger brother Michael Roeder. He also leaves behind many legions of toy soldiers, who are on their way to new homes.

Prior to his retirement, Dennis worked in various roles including teacher and jewelry store salesman. He always had a passion for writing and fulfilled a lifelong goal to publish a book following his wife’s death. The book Dede tells his very personal story of grief and recovery. During his later years, he lived in an independent living apartment at Taylor Springs Health Campus in Gahanna, and pursued his passions for writing, art, and military history. He was an avid miniature wargamer and an active member of St. Luke’s Lutheran Church.

Talk to anyone who knew Dennis and they will say he was a character. He was cultured, opinionated, well-traveled, conversationally fluent in French and German, and joyfully cantankerous. His final wish—after ensuring that his children knew where to find the financial documentation in his quirky filing system—was that he be buried next to his wife, best friend, and global traveling companion. In his book, he recalled a time when they were separated on the Paris Metro. She got off the train before him, but he knew that she would wait for him at the stop. It was a metaphor that brought him solace after her passing. Although they were temporarily parted, he was certain that they would eventually be reunited.

Dennis R. Roeder, 84, passed away on October 26, 2025. He was born on June 1, 1941 in Chicago, IL.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Schoedinger Northeast Funeral Home, 1051 E Johnstown Road, Gahanna, OH 43230, on November 2, 2025, from 1:30 pm to 2:00 pm.

Visitation will follow the service from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

Please continue to visit Dennis' webpage for additional life-story details as they become available.