Roger J. Sager
Roger J. Sager, 72, of Bradford, passed away Monday, June 14, 2021, at UPMC Hamot, in Erie following a long illness.
Born July 3,1948, in Bradford, he was a son of the late James F. and Josephine S. (Petrillo) Sager.
On Dec. 19, 1992, in Allegany, NY, he married Kathy A. "Kate" (Day) Sager who survives.
Roger worked at the Bradford City Police Department from 1970 to 2010 and served as Chief of Police for eight years. In addition to this, he held the ranks of patrolman, sergeant, shift supervisor, lieutenant and officer in charge of training. In addition to being a trained firearms instructor, he also was a certified NRA instructor for subjects that included personal protection and the Refuse to be a Victim course.
After retiring from the city police department, he worked as a Deputy Sheriff for McKean County Sheriff's Office for eight years.
He was a member of the Episcopal Church of the Ascension, the NRA, the Fraternal Order of Police and the McKean County Rifle Club.
One of his greatest pleasures after fully retiring was to write a regular column on his hunting experiences and vast knowledge of firearms for the Bradford Era. His unique and laid-back manner of speech often carried over into his written narratives, to the amusement and delight of his readers. He thoroughly enjoyed receiving feedback on his columns from community members.
Roger also had written outdoor columns for the former Woodsman publication in the Olean Times Herald a number of years ago.
Other activities Roger enjoyed included hunting, cooking for his family, and visiting with his grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, Kate, of 28 years, he is survived by one daughter, Suzanne (Eric) Marasco, of Bradford; one son, Eric (Carley Frisina) Sager, of Kane; a grandson, Leo Marasco, a granddaughter, Sophia Marasco, both of Bradford; and a future granddaughter Sager expected in September.
Friends will be recieved from 10:30 to 11 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. Saturday (June 19, 2021), at the Episcopal Church of Ascension, 26 Chautauqua Place, Bradford, with the Rev. Stacey Fussell, Rector, and Rev. Raymond Gramata, Pastor of St. Bernard Church officiating. Burial will be in St. Bernard Cemetery.
The service also will be livestreamed on Facebook (Episcopal Church of the Ascension-Bradford and YouTube (Ascension Bradford.)
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the McKean County Rifle Club or a charity of the donor's choice.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
All Condolences -
I first met Roger in 1963 and have had his friendship since then. Always. A gentleman, with a dry wit. We’d often talk about the past when we were both younger and healthier. A great story teller who loved his outdoors but more importantly his family. Enjoy Heaven you deserve it my friend.
— Pat Geary
To Kate and family my deepest sympathy. Roger bowled with us on Friday night and always had a small quip to keep us laughing. And he never left without a "3peat". As Roger would say " And it begins". Right again Roger, the next life begins. RIP "Chief" we''ll miss you.
— Mark Romanelli
Very sorry to hear of Roger’s death. He was a classmate of mine from high school and a really great person. I will miss the outdoor stories he wrote for the Era. Heartfelt condolences to his family.
— Karl Shuey
We are sorry to hear of your loss.
— Stoney,and Becky Greenberg
Kate - Our deepest sympathy to you and your entire family at Roger''s passing. We enjoyed his articles and are appreciative of his many years of service in law enforcement. With love - Molly and Kevin Lindahl
— Molly Lindahl
So sorry for your loss sager family. Always a sad time to see someone close to you depart from the planet. Just know he''s always with you in one way or another. Through what''s he''s taught you or Through a favorite past time enjoyed together. Your all in my thoughts.
— Jon Meacham
Eric & family - our condolences on the loss of your dad. Keep your memories of all your good times close. And know he was one of the good guys, liked and loved by many. Rest peacefully Roger. Love you Eric.
— Val ''Sis'' & Dean Meacham
Kate, I was frankly shocked to hear of Roger''s death..I had no idea that he had been ill. Please, please accept my condolences at his passing. If we can do anything to help you, we would be glad to.
— Sally Costik
To the family of Roger Sager,
I am very sorry to hear of Roger''s passing. I had known Roger since high school. Roger was a remarkable person, kind, caring, responsible, and always a pleasure to talk to. Always enjoyed his column in the Era newspaper. My prayers and thoughts are with you all. God bless you all.
— Kathy Symington
Dear Kate,
Bonnie and I are saddened by Roger''s passing. Is there anything we can do long distance?
— ROBERT GORDON
I''m saddened to hear of Roger''s passing. He was a great guy. Always friendly and soft spoken. I would run into him either in town or hunting and we would always have a nice chat. You were a good man. My deepest condolences to your family. Rest in peace Roger.
— Jeff Fetterman
Eric, Susie and Kate...my deepest sympathies for a wonderful man. I have many fond memories of Roger...my heart is hurting for you all right now.
— Tina Gardner
Sorry to hear of Rodger''s passing.....good memories of playing ball on Wagner Ave in the 60''s...we called him "Rogie or Roge"..always had good things to say to each other over the years...on the street or at the court house.....rest in peace my friend.....
— Cal Abbott
Kate, Eric and Suzy, I am deeply saddened at hearing of Roger''s passing. My first ride in a police cruiser was with Roger and I spent the next twenty one years getting to know one of the finest men I have ever known. He was genuine, honest and compassionate. I am proud to have called him a friend and a better person for having known him. The world may be a little darker without him, but heaven is a little brighter today. Rest well my friend.
— Bob Pyle
Kate and Suzy. So sorry to hear of your loss. Roger was a great man and will be missed. Thinking of you during this difficult time.
Kris and Bruce Young
— Kris Young
Kate, Eric and Suzi I am so sorry for your loss. Roger was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. May the world always remember him for the good man he was. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
— Christine Hannon and family
I worked with Roger for many years and he was a fantastic human being. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
— Lori Keith-Master
My sincere condolences go out to Kate and all of Rogers family.
— Donald Morey
Kate Eric Suzy. I am so deeply sorry to hear of your great loss. Knowing Roger was a great pleasure. Love and sympathy to you all
— Ginny Songer Crouse
So sorry to hear of Rogers passing. He was one of the finest people I’ll ever have the pleasure to know. Condolences to Kate and family. RIP Roger…
— Scott Bryant
Kate & Family,
So very sorry for your loss. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Roger was a good guy and will be missed.
RIP in Rog.
— Connie & Jim Huntoon
My condolences to Kate, Suzy Eric & Family. Words cannot express my sorrow in Roger''s passing. Having been a co-worker at BCPD for my entire 30 yr career and a close friend for longer, it was a true honor being his friend and hunting partner occasionally. We had alot of good times and good chats. We''ll miss him terribly. RIP Rog, you earned it my friend.
— Carl Milks