Roger Reeck, beloved husband, father, missionary, linguist, and self-taught village doctor (thanks to an old Missionary Medical Manual), passed away on March 28, 2025 in San Antonio, TX. His life was an extraordinary journey of faith, adventure, and an occasional misadventure—all in the name of bringing God’s Word to those who had never heard it in their own language.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, Roger was one of ten siblings, which meant he quickly learned how to make himself heard—a skill that served him well in the years to come. His love for Jesus and languages began early, sitting on his great-grandmother’s lap as she told him about Christ in German. That love would later lead him to learn Italian in the Detroit fruit markets, Spanish in college (partly to impress a certain young lady named Marilyn), and eventually, a range of indigenous languages that most people can’t even pronounce.

Roger met Marilyn, the prettiest Spanish-speaking missionary kid he’d ever encountered, at Fort Wayne Bible College. Together, they embarked on a lifelong adventure that took them to the remote mountains of Mexico, the coastal villages of Honduras, and eventually, mission fields across the globe. Whether dodging treacherous roads, pulling teeth with questionable medical training, or navigating cultural barriers with humor and grace, Roger was always up for the challenge.

He dedicated his life to Bible translation, ensuring that countless people could read Scripture in their heart language. But more than that, Roger was a mentor, a friend, and a man whose faith was as deep as his love for those he served. He had a knack for storytelling, a heart for the underdog, and an uncanny ability to show up just in time for meals.

Roger is survived by his devoted wife, Marilyn, his loving daughters Chrysti, Teresa, Amanda, Elisa, and his Mexican son, Meinardo; his adoring grandchildren, and a global community that was forever changed by his presence.

While we will miss his wisdom, humor, and boundless energy, we take comfort in knowing that he has finally reached his heavenly home—probably already swapping stories with the saints and finding a new language to learn.

A small Celebration of Life service will be held on April 5, 2025 at 4:00pm at Leon Valley Baptist Church in San Antonio, TX, and a larger celebration will be held April 21 in La Ceiba, Honduras. 

Roger fought the good fight, finished the race, and no doubt arrived in heaven with a smile on his face and a joke ready to go. Well done, good and faithful servant.

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