Roger Mott

Roger Mott liked to keep his life simple, with his family at the center and everything else just a little off to the side. He served his country as a courageous soldier, his community as a respected businessman, and his family as a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather.

Roger was born on April 25, 1945, in Rosiclare, Illinois along the Ohio River. He was the youngest of the children born to Millard and Daisy (Showalter) Mott. Roger’s mother died unexpectedly when he was 13, and he went to live with his sister in Battle Creek. Roger completed his education in the Battle Creek schools and graduated from Battle Creek Central High. Soon thereafter, he followed the same patriotic calling of other young men of the time, and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force Reserves to serve during the Vietnam War.

During the 1960s, Roger lived for a time in New Orleans, but returned to Battle Creek by the early 70s to be near his two children, Leslie and Steve. He loved them both dearly, and felt truly blessed the day they were born. In early 1976, Roger’s life took a new direction when he was introduced to Susan Kay Molby through a mutual friend. Neither of them wanted to upset their friend, so Roger and Susan agreed to go on a date, which was the start of something wonderful. A mere three months later, the two were happily married on May 28, 1976.

Roger earned a living as a computer salesman, which took him to many areas throughout the U.S. Because of this, he and Susan lived in several places during their first years of marriage. They eventually made their way back to Kalamazoo, and Roger continued his own business out of their home called PDS Sports.

Outside of work, Roger enjoyed fishing and gambling at nearby casinos. He was happiest, however, right in the comfort of his own home, where he took great pride in maintaining an immaculate yard. A little over a year ago, Roger was diagnosed with cancer and underwent treatment, which was completely successful. Sadly, his cancer reappeared three weeks ago and Roger died on Thursday, November 29, 2007 at the Battle Creek VA Medical Center at the age of 62. All who knew Roger will treasure his memory.

In addition to his wife, Susan Mott, members of Roger’s family include his children: Leslie & Ron Osborne and Steve & Susan Mott; and grandchildren: Allison, Landon, Lydia and Philip. Roger was preceded in death by his siblings: Aliene, Irene, Geri and James (Bud). Funeral services for Roger will be held on Monday, December 3, at 1 p.m. at the Life Story Funeral Home, RDMG, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage (344-5600). Roger will be buried at Mt. Ever-rest Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Please visit Roger’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you may share a memory with his family or sign his online guest book.