Roger G. Nefzer

Roger G. Nefzer, a cherished resident of the Centerville community, passed away unexpectedly at home on August 4, 2025, in Centerville, Ohio, at the age of 78. Born on July 12, 1947 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Roger's journey through life was defined by his faith, dedication, humility, loyalty and deeply rooted love for his family and friends.

Early in his career, Roger moved to the Dayton area while working for the AO Smith Company. He was most recently the IT Director for Centerville City Schools, a role that showcased his commitment to education and willingness to drop everything to assist others. During college, he took his summer moving job with United Van Lines very seriously. In typical Roger fashion, he took great pride in his ability to pack so much into small places and somehow never break anything.

Roger was a graduate of Rufus King High School in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics from Lakeland College in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. An avid runner, he found challenge and solace within the running community, which played a significant role in his life. He became very devoted to running, continuing on to compete in several marathons and many other races.

Roger's selfless nature and good-hearted spirit ensured that he was always there for anyone in need, embodying a passion for serving others that touched countless lives. Additionally, the lightheartedness from his teasing and joking demeanor was infectious and brought joy to those around him. He was famous for assigning fun nicknames to those in his life, including his own self-assigned nickname…The Old Fart!

He was actively involved in various community organizations, including the Men's Group and the Shoes for the Shoeless project at Southbrook Christian Church. Roger also participated in the Victory Project, which aims to empower young men through education, entrepreneurship, and enlightenment.

Roger is survived by his loving wife, Cay Nefzer, and his two adored daughters, Amy (Matt) Patel and Carrie (Ted) Kuhlman. Cay's children (treated as his own), David (Lindsay) Pohlkotte, Christy (Gary) Thompson, and Alison (Jared) Smith. Roger was a proud grandfather to Anke, Reka, William, Trevor, Jake, Kayden, Danielle, Cambria, Noah, Briella, and Emma. His greatest joy was supporting his grandchildren in their various interests by attending as many of their activities and events as possible. He is further survived by his siblings: Rick (Kathy) Nefzer, Don (Donna) Nefzer, and Janet (Steve) Peterson; his dear friend, Jeanne (the late John) Ward; his granddogs Spencer, Remy and the late Finn; as well as many loving nieces, nephews, family, friends, and neighbors.

Roger was preceded in death by his first wife, Marlene Nefzer, his parents, Roland and Jane Nefzer, and his brother, Dennis Nefzer. His absence will be felt by those whose lives he touched, but his legacy of kindness, humility, and unwavering support of others will continue on.

Please join the family in celebrating Roger’s life on Monday, September 8th, 2025. The Celebration of Life will be held at The Reverie, within SouthBrook Christian Church, commencing at 4:30 pm followed by a gathering, with small plates and drinks, at 6:00 pm.

Reverie at SouthBrook Christian Church
9095 Washington Church Rd.
Miamisburg, OH 45342

We look forward to the sharing of stories, special moments and memories of Roger.

Donations may be made in his memory to either:

The Victory Project, 409 Troy Street, Dayton, Ohio 45404 (Digital link provided below)

or to

Lydia's Mission, https://lydiasmission.org

To share a memory of Roger or leave a special message for his family, please visit the Guestbook below.

"When I come to the end of the

road and the sun has set for

me, I want no rites in a gloom

filled room. Why cry for a soul

set free. Miss me a little-but not

too long. And not with your

head bowed low. Remember the

love that we once shared.

Miss me-but let me go. For this

is a journey that we all must

take and each must go alone. It's

all a part of the Master's plan,

a step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick of

heart, go to the friends we have

known and bury your sorrows

in doing good deeds."