Dennis Roger Nordeman

Hamilton, Ohio to Juanita and Hoyt Nordeman. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother

Thomas.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Mary Jane Nordeman; son, Douglas Nordeman (Julie) of

Huntsville AL; daughter, Debra Bash (Richard) of Peachtree Corners, GA; seven grandchildren: Katherine

and Emma Nordeman; Annabelle, Natalie, Silas, Vincent, and Calvin Bash; brother, Craig Nordeman of

Acworth, GA; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Dennis graduated from Miami University with a Bachelor of Science and MBA. He moved to Rome in

1968 to work at Georgia Kraft, later Temple-Inland, from which he retired in 2003. Following retirement

he became an active volunteer, donating his time and energy to organizations around Rome.

He will be especially remembered as a volunteer at Floyd Medical Center where he frequently wore his

red clown nose and made balloon animals for the children under the pseudonym "Jolly Green Jester."

He also volunteered at the Harbin Specialty Center.

Dennis was a Captain of the Roman Holiday sometimes assuming the character "Popeye the Sailor Man,"

as he told the history of Rome and its rivers. He was a docent for the Rome Area History Center,

frequently guiding groups through Rome and up to the historic clock tower. He loved researching

steamboat history, and wrote the book Steamboats on the Coosa River.

Dennis enjoyed singing with the First United Methodist Chancel Choir and playing handbells. He often

visited retirement homes where he led a "Sing-along" program. He was a longtime member of the Rome

Power Squadron and instructor of boating education classes, a charter member of the Rome

Toastmasters, and a founding member of Heritage Riverways Foundation.

Dennis and Mary Jane moved to the Spires at Berry College shortly before his illness. There he enjoyed

singing with the Spires Singers, learning to play the dulcimer, and speaking about Rome history to other

residents.

A memorial service will be held at 1pm, Saturday, March 5th, at Rome First United Methodist Church

with Rev. Dr. Robert Brown officiating. Masks required. Family will receive friends at the church from noon until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the

Rome Area History Center, Rome First United Methodist Church, or a charity of your choice.