Roger LeGrand: A Tribute
February 11, 2021
 | By Jamie Schloegel, Chief Executive Officer |
Remembering an enthusiastic, dedicated community servant and friend
It was a shock to learn that former board member Roger LeGrand died suddenly of a heart attack February 8 at the age of 75, leaving behind many loved ones and an incredible legacy of community service. His life and career were filled with a relentless dedication to the greater good.
Roger served on the LCF board from 2001 to 2013. He started by filling an unexpired term, which allowed him a total of 12 years of service instead of the typical ten. He was Chairman of the board from 2008-2010, and then continued to be involved for one more year on the Grants & Scholarship Committee. He will forever be remembered as a steadfast advocate of the foundation and its mission.
A tribute from one board chair to another
LCF’s current board chair, Brent Smith, is a dear friend of the LeGrands, and has offered the following tribute in honor of Roger:
Roger had a distinguished career including service as our District Attorney, City Council member, Family Court Commissioner, School Board representative, Wisconsin tax commissioner and a Circuit Court judge. He also served on a number of volunteer boards including the LCF Board, UWL-Foundation, and La Crosse Public Education Foundation. He and Sondra gave much time and money through their work with Rotary to assist citizens throughout the world.
There are so many words to describe Roger-passionate, caring, welcoming, a good listener, optimistic, fun loving, always happy, extremely curious. He loved La Crosse, but he was truly a world citizen. He travelled all over the world and it was probably his greatest passion.
He and Sondra raised two wonderful children who reflect their parents love of life and community spirit. I’ll remember Roger as someone who was always willing to step up to help his family, friends, and community. He lived life to the fullest and was never cheated. Every day was a new adventure for Roger and he enjoyed every minute.
He and Sondra often hosted international students and Rotarians visiting from other countries. We are all better and our community is better for the contributions that came from Roger. He loved life and he impacted many through his welcoming ways and volunteer efforts. He treated all with dignity and respect even if he might disagree with your politics. His zest for life and unforgettable laugh were spread to all around him.
He was one of a kind.
Please click here to read Roger’s full obituary.
The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to the Sondra and Roger LeGrand Family Fund at La Crosse Community Foundation, or to the Rotary Club of La Crosse.