Carl R. Roetzel, age 82, of Custer, SD died Sunday, November 19, 2006 at his home, with his family by his side after a short battle with cancer.

Carl was born May 7, 1924 in Lead, SD, to Frank and Helen (Doll) Roetzel. When he was one year old his family moved to the Bear Springs Place in the Custer Limestone northwest of Custer. Shortly after that his family moved to the Roetzel Ranch eight miles northwest of Custer, where he grew up. Carl graduated from Custer High School in 1943. After graduation he joined the United States Army and served in WWII. He was inducted into the Army on October 21, 1943 and served with the 10th Mountain 2nd Quarter Master Battalion, stationed in Italy and the European Theater. Carl was very proud of his service to this country. He received his honorable discharge on May 12, 1946.

On December 15, 1946 he married Alice Hammond in Custer, SD at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church. Their daughter, Mary, was born May 19, 1954. He spent his life in the Custer area working in the logging industry. He drove logging trucks for Linde's Sawmill for 25 years. Carl retired in 1987. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, hunting, fishing walleye on the Missouri River, and spending time with family and friends. He always had a story and time for others. He loved taking his family and friends on drives through the Black Hills and showing them his favorite spots.

He was a life time member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church and was a cornerstone in the church.

He is survived by his wife, Alice of Custer, SD; daughter, Mary (Richard) Bradeen of Black Hawk, SD; three grandchildren, Tim (Kelly) Bradeen of Rapid City, SD; Jeff Bradeen of Custer, SD; Teresa Bradeen of Black Hawk, SD; one brother, Arthur (Joanna) Roetzel of Custer, SD; one sister, Lucille (William) Hiller of Merced, CA; many nieces nephews and a host of relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and one sister.

Memorial services will be held 2:00 pm, Wednesday, November 22, 2006 at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Custer, SD with Reverend Robert Anderson officiating.

Interment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established in Carl's name to benefit Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Custer.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of McColley's Chapels of the Hills in Custer, SD. Written condolences can be made at www.mccolleyschapels.com.