In Memory of

Roger

Marvin

Haney

Obituary for Roger Marvin Haney

ROGER M. HANEY
July 13, 1942 - February 8, 2022

It is with great sadness and broken hearts that we announce the passing of Roger Marvin Haney, loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather on Tuesday February 8, 2022, in Thunder Bay, Ontario at the age of 79. Roger passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side following a lengthy, hard fought battle with cancer.

Roger was born to Russell and Geneva Haney in Emo, ON. He was raised on the family homestead in Dearlock, ON with his 12 siblings, often repeating his father’s words that “they didn’t have much, but that they had a lot of love”.

From an early age Roger worked on the family farm alongside his dad and brothers, harvesting wood from their land; as soon as he was allowed, he became a reliable pulp truck driver. After moving to Thunder Bay in 1964, he was employed as a City Transit bus driver for 14 years, before he bravely ventured into the world of being a self-employed entrepreneur in car sales. In retirement, he returned to driving a bus, being employed with Iron Range ensuring the safe transport of hundreds of Thunder Bay children to and from school. Roger always had a strong work ethic, and was dedicated to providing for his family, often working two jobs.

In 1959 he met the love of his life, Sharron Curtis. They were married 61 years ago on February 10, 1961. After Sharron completed her teacher education training, they moved to Thunder Bay to build their life together. They were soon blessed with two daughters, Joanne and Jodi and a son, Roger Jr. This happy family of five shared experiences, fabulous travels and memories together. In their later years, Roger and Sharron loved to escape the winter weather of Northern Ontario and travel to the sand and sun of Florida, Mexico and Hawaii. A proud moment for him was climbing to the summit of the Diamond Head Trail of an Oahu volcano at the age of 70.

Roger’s fondest memories are those spent with family. Roger loved lake life, whether camping at Arrow Lake, fishing at Lac Des Mille Lacs or summer fun at Loon Lake. He enjoyed all aspects of being outdoors with his family, from horseshoe tournaments to playing cribbage into the evening and then sharing stories around the bonfire. Roger especially enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren competing in their athletic endeavours. From hockey rinks to swimming pools, to basketball and volleyball courts, to gymnastics competitions and dance recitals, Roger’s pride in their accomplishments was immeasurable. He loved watching the Toronto Blue Jays and the Maple Leafs and became a true fan of watching curling. Gardening and landscape work were favourite past times of his, and Roger always ensured that each of his family members were equipped with safe and reliable vehicles, often completing all labour and repairs himself.

Roger is survived by his loving wife, Sharron, his three children Joanne (Scott) Potts, of Loon Lake, ON, Jodi (Dwayne) Ziebarth, of Woodstock, ON and Roger Jr. (Elaine) Haney of Thunder Bay, ON. He was the proud Grandfather to Jordan (Sarah) Potts of Shuniah, ON, Elisha (Kurtis) Jung of Thunder Bay, ON, Amber (Matthew) Macleod of Hamilton, ON, Autumn Ziebarth of Guelph, ON, and Tucker Haney of Thunder Bay, ON. Roger recently became Great-Grandfather to three little blessings, Cohen and Leo Potts, and Kyla Jung of Thunder Bay, ON. Roger was predeceased by his parents Russell and Geneva Haney and eight siblings.

The family would like to express sincere thanks to the numerous Doctors involved with Roger’s care over the last seven years from the TBRHSC. Despite his many health challenges, Roger never lost his sense of humour or the ability to make people laugh, his smile brightening any room. He was the family superhero.

As per Roger’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private Celebration of Life will be held in the summer, his favourite time of year. Should family and friends wish to make a donation in Roger’s memory, in lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the TBRHSC -Cancer Centre. Online condolences can be made at www.sargentandson.com