Roger Hirstein, age 82, passed away on Monday, January 2, 2023. He was born the son of Albert and Lena Hirstein on December 23, 1940 in Decatur, IL. Roger grew up in Macon, IL graduating from Macon High School, class of 1958. He graduated from UW-Platteville with a BA and Master’s degree in Education. Roger taught and coached high school basketball and cross-country for eight years in both Dodgeville and River Falls, WI. He later worked for 3M as a national sales manager in the Commercial Graphics division for 27 years. Roger married Ruthann Alexander on August 1, 1964 and they later divorced in 1985. They were blessed with three children, Rich, Paula, and David. Roger later married Dellene “Del” Cipra on November 12, 1988 in River Falls. Roger’s children grew to five with the inclusion of Del’s two children, Tracee and Scott. Roger loved golfing, coaching and teaching basketball. He helped establish the River Falls Youth Boys Basketball program. He also loved traveling to AZ in the winter and listening to music and going to shows in Branson, MO. Roger was a loving coach and very supportive of his family.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Lena; first wife, Ruthann; brother, Warner; and numerous half-brothers and half-sisters. Roger is survived by his wife, Del; children, Rich, Paula (Rick) Flood, David “Bo” (Ali), Tracee (Randy) Bishop, Scott (Kristi) Hughes; 15 grandchildren, Allie and Mariah, Macguire and Payton, Seth, Jack, Gavin, Lyla, and Jonah, Tyler, Kenny, and Jon, Jace, Kamryn, and Makenna; two great-grandchildren, Finley and Jaxson; brothers, Richard and Dennis; and many other relatives and friends.
A Memorial Service was held on Saturday, January 7, 2023 at 4:00PM at the First Congregational Church (110 N 3rd St) in River Falls with a visitation starting one hour prior to the service. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
New Richmond:
(715) 243-5252 |
River Falls:
(715) 425-8788
22 Comments
Del and family,
Many thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. You have truly been a strong caregiver and I admire your love and devotion to Roger.
I always enjoyed having conversations with Coach Hirstein. Thoughts and prayers go out to Del and the entire Hirstein family.
So sorry to learn of this Del. Roger was an important part of my Dad’s life; I’m glad they can be enjoying each other’s company again. May he be at peace. ~Melanie
A fantastic coach and “basketball dad” for myself and others growing up. His support and encouragement when I was young has stayed with me to this day. Thinking of him yelling “Way to go ET!” in a quiet gym always makes me smile. Rest in peace Mr. Hirstein, and say Hi to my mom and dad for me.
I am so sorry to hear this. Roger was always such a joy to see at Payton’s games. He was such a great man and the foundation of many fire great men. My condolences to all the Hirstien family.
Mr Hirstein taught the behind the wheel driver’s ed portion when I was in high schooI in the early 1970s . it was tricky for me at first & then I just took off under his guidance! I will always appreciate him for that.
Roger was a wonderful man, he was so good to our family and every family in River Falls, Send My Thoughts, Love & Prayers
So sorry to hear about the passing of Uncle Roger. Prayers for everyone!
My sincere condolences to you Del and the entire family. I always credit Roger with my sobriety. I am truly grateful that Roger confronted me about my problem over 42 years ago! Thank you so much Roger and RIP🙏🙏
Rodger was a great man and neighbor back when I was growing up rest in peace
WISHING THE FMAILY PRAYS.
Childhood friends with Scotty and Tracee. Wishing Del, and the rest of the family nothing but the best.
Hirstein family, Roger will be missed by so many 3Mers and Wisconsin basketball fans! I really enjoyed working with him, and wish that I could be there for the service. Remembering all the laughter we shared and how much he loved all of you, focus on those great memories!
Prayers to Del and family RIP ROG
He was ahead of his time as HS basketball coach with his choice of offensive plays that eventually became the standard for the sport within a few years after he left. Roger was a quality person and teacher.
Del and family – So sorry to hear of Roger’s passing. Will be keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Cherish all the wonderful memories that you had with him. Take care.
Del – We were all saddened to hear about Roger and we are truly sorry that we cannot be by your side during this difficult time. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We will always remember the happy family times we have shared over the years. God bless you all.
Dear Del and family;
I’m so very sorry for your loss. Your hearts and memories will carry Roger with you always.
Del and kids:
Sorry for your loss and inability to be there with you. Enjoyed all the times I got to see Roger dating all the way back to Thanksgiving dinners in Macon and to the more recent visits. Thought about you guys when I was in Branson for Veterans Week In November because I know he enjoyed going there. My prayers are with you.
ooooh sorry to hear. Roger and I had a lot of fun back in the day. He REALLY loved his family. Talked about you all the time. And Del you were definitely the light of his life. Sending love.
Roger sold me my first golf clubs and taught me a lot about business. He always had great sayings and was a treasure to work with. My prayers for him and his family. I will never forget Roger.
One of my favorite high school teachers, Sending my sympathy for his family.
Roger was the best commentator re an event or performance. He displayed a skill inherint to teachersl & coaches he was great to argue with……even when u disagreed width him.
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