Frank H. Rollwagen

May 6, 2016
Rollwagen, Frank H. - of Tawas City, formerly of Saginaw, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, May 6, 2016. He was 86 years of age. Frank was born January 12, 1930 in Yonkers, New York to the late Charles and Francis (Kunow) Rollwagen. He married Barbara Hallack August 5, 1950 and they shared nearly 66 years together. She survives him. Frank was a former member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Saginaw and a current member of Zion Lutheran Church in Tawas City. He served both churches in many roles, including chairman of each congregation, board of elders, and choir member. Frank was employed by Schemm Insurance in Saginaw for 38 years and retired in 1996 as a partner with the firm. He was an active member of the Professional Insurance Association, serving on the board of directors and as president. Frank was also a former chairman of the St. Luke's Hospital Executive Board in Saginaw, which became Covenant Healthcare. He also enjoyed playing golf and was an avid reader. Surviving besides his wife, Barbara are: Son, Gregory F. (Kathy) Rollwagen of Saginaw, and Daughter, Susan (Mark) Busse of Chicago, Illinois; 6 grandchildren: Chrystie (Mike) Pihalja, Michael Rollwagen, Chad (Vicki) Busse, Erin (Wes) Turk, Kent Busse, and Kira Busse; and 3 great grandchildren: Megan Pihalja, Dylan Pihalja, and Clara Busse. Also surviving are his sister, Martha Wilson of Kansas City, Missouri, and many nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Frank was preceded in death by his brother, Charles Rollwagen. A memorial service will be held at 1:30 PM Saturday, May 14, 2016 at the Reitz Herzberg Funeral Home, 1550 Midland Road in Saginaw. Rev. Paul Hinz officiating. Visitation will take place on Saturday from 12 Noon until the time of memorial service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Covenant Healthcare Foundation or Zion Lutheran Church Youth Group, 720 2nd Street, Tawas City, MI 48763. Please sign our guest book or share an online condolence with the family at www.reitzherzberg.com., an O'Guinn Family Funeral Home. Reitz Herzberg Funeral Home (989) 790-2440 To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of Frank Rollwagen, please visit our Tribute Store.
Dear Rollwagon family…..I am so truly sorry for your loss. I liked Frank a lot and will miss the warm hug and friendly greeting when ever I made it up to the cottage. I will also miss the good times when we sat around the camp fire or around Dennis’s picnic table having cocktails and snacks. I will keep you in my thoughts during this sad time and Barb will be thinking of you always. Hope to see you sometime this summer…..Barb Behrends (Denise’s sister)
Denise and I would have never purchased our cottage if not for Frank. He is the first “Pinewood” resident we met; and we like to think over the years we became good friends; even extended family. We will miss him more than words can tell. His euphemisms: “whose-it” to describe someone or some place, and “thing-a-ma-jig” to describe something was a real hoot! Yes, he did chuckle when Barb referred to themselves as the “Bickersons”. Yes, he was cantankerous, and demanding at times; especially with his grandchildren. Yet, I know he loved them all dearly; and often would brag to me about each of them; but, he would say “don’t tell them what I said”. I could always count on him to lend a helping hand; even if I didn’t especially ask or need it. Still, I appreciated his sense of humor, as he loved a good joke, and respected him for his convictions. In spite of our age difference, I felt honored to call him my friend. I will think back upon all of the wonderful times we shared; and I will miss him greatly. Our sincere condolence to Barb, Greg, Suzie, and the family.
To Barb and then entire family. Our hearts are saddened to learn of Frank’s passing. He was such a kind and welcoming neighbor when we purchased our home in Tawas. Many a good conversation was had at Ralph’s house. We will always remember his as a kind and generous person, always willing with a helping hand. May his memory be eternal. Dennis and Angela Sobieski, Park Ridge, IL
DEAR BARB AND FAMILY
MAY THE GOOD LORD GIVE YOU STRENGTH AND COMFORT IN YOUR TIME OF SORROW. LOTS OF GOOD MEMORIES AT GOOD SHEPHERD
WIL & MARIE SCHAEFF