Roger Irving Lacey

Roger Irving Lacey, 84, of Sheffield, Iowa, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2025, at his home, in Sheffield surrounded by loved ones.

Born on April 25, 1941, in Mason City, Iowa, Roger was the son of William and Marie Lacey. He grew up in Hancock County and began his education at the country school Twin Lakes #1. He graduated from Meservey High School in 1958.

Roger began his working life by working for Lloyd Faaborg in construction before serving his country in the United States Army. From November 1963 to November 1965, he was stationed at Fort Stewart, Georgia, where he achieved the rank of E-4 and earned a letter of commendation as a Sharpshooter with the M-14 rifle. After completing his military service, Roger returned to Iowa and worked at the elevator in Alexander and drove truck for Ruan Transport.

In 1967, Roger began what would become a lifelong career with Sukup Manufacturing. Over the course of 45 years, he became a dedicated and valued member of the company until his retirement in August 2012.

Roger was married to Connie Kern, and had two daughters, April and Paige. They later divorced. On April 17, 1973, Roger married Gail (Patro) Hopes and became a father to her two children, Todd and Tina.

Roger found joy in simple pleasures — gardening, watching birds at his feeders, and tinkering around in his shed. Known for being very talkative and full of knowledge, Roger was an avid reader who loved sharing stories and insights with those around him. His greatest joy came from spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Gail; Children: Todd (Cyndi) Hopes of Sheffield; April Ketchum of Mason City; Tina Hopes-Lacey of Sheffield; Paige (Dan) Elsbernd of Grimes; Grandchildren: Andrea Hopes, Michaela Hopes, Rebecca Hopes, Cole Pearce, Cassidy (Brady) Ryan, Sydney Kingery, Conner Miller, Levi (Helen) Miller, and Alec Elsbernd; Great-Grandchildren: Rayna Ryan, Lettie Cerwinske, Axel Evenson and Avery Miller; Brother: Ron (Carol) Lacey of Kansas City, Missouri; Sister: Norma Gerdes of Belmond; Brother-in-law: Dick Kaduce of Clear Lake; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents William and Marie Lacey; Brother: Bill Lacey; Sisters: Betty Pralle, Leola Nedved, Dorothy Gerdes, Elaine Ristau, and Ruth Kaduce; Brothers-in-law: Vernon Pralle, Arnie Nedved, Henry Gerdes, Paul Ristau, and Elmer Gerdes; and Sister-in-law: Betty Lacey.

Roger’s legacy is one of hard work, deep knowledge shared freely with others, and unwavering love for family. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him. Visitation was held on July 2, 2025, from 04:00 PM to 07:00 PM at Sietsema-Atkinson Funeral Home, 1309 4th St NE in Hampton. Funeral Services were held on July 3, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Zion St John Lutheran Church, 422 Sherman St, Sheffield. Interment will be held at Hillside Cemetery, Sheffield, following funeral services.