John J. Roland

John (Jack) Roland moved on to happier fishing grounds on Tuesday, July 18^th.  His wife of 59 years, Margaret and the rest of his family mourns his loss, and yet knows he is in a better place where she will join him with God’s grace.

  John was born on Aug. 7th, 1919 in Oswego, New York by the banks of Lake Ontario.  While at Syracuse University he completed a degree in Civil Engineering on an athletic scholarship for boxing.  He attained several championships in his boxing career including the “Golden Gloves” level of accomplishment.

  During World War II John volunteered for duty with the Navy, and chose to become involved with the group responsible for the deactivation of enemy bombs, and with underwater demolition of enemy ships – the elite Navy SEALS as we know them today.

  His post war career as a Professional Civil Engineer with Gibbs & Hill Inc. gave John and his growing family the opportunity to travel both within the United States as well as to South America, Central America and Egypt to assist with the completion of various public works projects such as dams, bridges and power plants.

  John was devoted to his family, and enjoyed camping on Cape Cod with his wife and children.  In later years a summer home on Prince Edward Island, Canada gave John and Margaret much pleasure, as did the opportunity for John to chase the always elusive brook trout.

  After spending several retirement years in Florida John felt the calling to the Black Hills.  Battling the effects of Alzheimer’s disease finally took its toll, but we will always remember him more for his gentle spirit and kind ways.

  He is survived by his wife Margaret of Rapid City, SD; son John of Custer Highlands, SD; Paul of Virginia; Anne of New York, Meg of Oregon, Mary of Custer Highlands, SD; thirteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.