Roger J. Gleeson

Roger J. Gleeson of Jackson, Michigan passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 20, 2026 leaving behind a legacy of dedication to his family, his faith, and his community.

Roger was born February 23,1931 in Quebec, Canada, to Victor and Yvonne (Cousineau) Gleeson and grew up in Detroit, Michigan in a French-Canadian household. He proudly served his country as a member of the Michigan Air National Guard from 1951-1954. He was called to active duty with the United State Air Force from 1951-1952 in support of the Korean War effort, achieving the rank of Airman Second Class (A2C).

After graduating from law school, he moved to Jackson, Michigan and established a long and respected career as an attorney in private practice.

Growing up in Detroit, he became a passionate fan of the Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers. His loyalty to his hometown teams lasted his entire life, and watching the games was a favorite pastime he shared with his family.

Roger, affectionately known as Dad or Bumpy, will be remembered for his deep Catholic faith (attending mass daily), his kind and steady heart, his quiet wisdom, humble service, devotion to family, and the way he lived as someone we could all look to and say, “We should all be a little more like Bumpy.” Roger was also known for his sharp mind, starting every morning with a crossword puzzle and keeping up with his daily Wordle streak.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife of 65 years, Susan; his son Michael; his grandchildren, Michael and Madeline; his sister Lucille Repke and his brother Raymond. He is survived by his sister Rita Goodrow; eight children (Christopher, Catherine (Reynolds), Timothy, David, Patrick, Matthew, Joanna (Plate), Sarah (Ermatinger)) and their spouses; daughter-in-law B. Lynn; 19 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by his large family, the regulars at Queen’s early morning mass and many friends.

The family is grateful to Otterbein Assisted Living and Optimal Care Hospice for the compassionate care provided to Roger in the last two months.

According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at 10:30 AM at Queen of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church with Father Timothy MacDonald officiating.

The family will receive friends at the Church on Saturday, October 24 from 9:30 AM until 10:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Roger’s name to Optimal Care Hospice or Lumen Christi Catholic High School.