Rolland Lauer

Rolland William Lauer passed away quietly on September 8th after suffering a stroke. He was born on May 27, 1930, in Eldorado, Iowa to Harold P. and Evelyn Granger Lauer. Growing up in small-town Iowa, he was active in both music and sports, did farm work from an early age, and helped his father in his farm implement business. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in history from Wartburg College in 1951. From 1952 – 1954 he served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Puerto Rico. After leaving the army he earned two more degrees, a bachelor’s degree in music education from Drake University, and a master’s degree in music from the Chicago Conservatory of Music. He became a music teacher in the Chicago suburbs, primarily in Waukegan, where he taught at Jack Benny Junior High School for 28 years. He had a lifelong love of music and was not only a teacher but also a director, performer and listener, attending the Lyric Opera in Chicago for 57 years.

In addition to his musical interests, he was active in his church and an avid gardener and photographer.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Paula Schiffler Lauer, a brother and sister-in-law, Kenneth and Patricia Lauer of Cedar Rapids, IA, and two children and their spouses: Jane and Mark Moderhack of Summerville, SC and Kurt and Jennifer Lauer of Wilmette, IL. He was the devoted grandfather of four: Luke Moderhack, Sarah Moderhack, Elsa Lauer, and Greta Lauer. He will be remembered most as a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. 

Services were held at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 3350 N. Delany Rd., Waukegan, on Saturday, September 17th at 11:00 a.m., followed by a luncheon. The family greeted friends from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the church. Memorials may be sent to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, the ELCA Hunger Appeal, or the Wounded Warriors.

Arrangements are under the direction of PETERSON & PATCH FUNERAL HOME 408 N. Sheridan Rd. Waukegan.