Roger R. Close, 89, of Gladbrook, IA, died Tuesday, December 17, 2024.  He was born in his Uncle Paul's home in rural Brandon, IA on November 23, 1935, to Robert and Edith Close. He married Gloria Jones on January 7, 1961.

Roger is survived by one son, Craig (Suzanne) of Pensacola, FL; two grandsons Jason Close of Washington, DC, and Braden Close of Pensacola, FL; two great grand children: Tobias and Simon of Omaha, NE.

Roger made his living by working as a farmhand from sun up to sun down and Craig will always remember what a hard worker he was, giving 100% to his work no matter what dirty job it was.  Fond memories include fishing at local ponds as a family whenever they could, visiting relatives, going to Pizza Ranch and spending cherished time with his youngest grandson.  Roger looked forward to those visits, which always included a mean game of UNO and a couple bags of his favorite hard candy from Theisen's.

Roger attended First Baptist Church in Vinton for many years.  As he entered nursing home care, Roger enjoyed passing the time by creating beautiful art with colored pencils.  Roger formed a special bond with the amazing nursing home staff that took such good care of him.   The family will always be thankful for the nurses at Sunnycrest in Dysart and Westbrook Acres in Gladbrook for the love, support and great care of Roger for so many years.

Waiting to greet Roger is his wife of 54 years, sister-in-law Bev, and two special aunts that made a great impact on the family, Delia and Anna.  In addition to numerous other relatives of the large Close family.

Roger will be cremated and a private family service will be held at a later date.  Cards of condolences may reach the family at 3404 Holt Circle, Pensacola, FL 32526.  Any memorials will be donated to Hotel for Dogs and Cats animal rescue in Roger's name.