Rodger Frederick Morris, 97, of Northbrook, IL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, surrounded by his loving daughters at his home.
Born on March 18, 1926, in Chicago, IL, he was the son of the late Duncan Frederick and Eleanor Louise “Dolly” (Grimm) Morris. He attended local schools and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in education from Northern Illinois University, and his master’s degree in banking.
On August 5, 1950, he married Anita Rosemary “Nancy” Heick at St. Margaret Mary Cathedral in Chicago, IL. They lived in Winnetka, IL for over 30 years, before moving back to Northbrook, IL. She preceded him in death on December 7, 2005.
Rodger served in the United States Navy in the South Pacific during World War II, until he was honorably discharged.
He was employed by Winnetka Trust and Savings, later known as Winnetka Bank. He was instrumental in the implementation of the Automatic Teller Macines (ATM’s). He served as the President of the bank and retired after 30 years.
Rodger was the oldest and longest member of the Winnetka Club of Rotary International. He served two presidential terms, one in 1970’s and again in the early 2000’s. His family housed many exchange students over the years. He not only donated his time to Rotary but also was a very notable donor.
In his free time, he enjoyed freshwater fishing in Canada; woodworking, making furniture; flying small planes; playing volleyball, softball, and racquetball; and doing the Chicago Tribune Crossword Puzzle every day in ink. Rodger was an animal lover, his favorite being black labs. His house was affectionately known as the “House of Black”.
He is survived by his three daughters, Anita Morris of Gurnee, IL, Elizabeth (Shawn Lawler) Morris of Vernon Hills, IL, and Amy (Denise Linden) Morris of Lakewood, WA. He is further survived by other loving family and friends.
Rodger was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and son, Rodger D. Morris.
Private graveside services were held at St. James Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held in October in the Northshore of IL, more details will be forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Accord Hospice, 400 Lake Cook Rd Ste 223, Deerfield, IL 60015 would be appreciated by the family.
