Rollie Kenneth Cox died peacefully, Saturday, April 20, 2019 in Lander, Wyoming at the age of 94, surrounded by his four children.
Rollie was born on June 24, 1924 in Shoshoni, Wyoming. He was the son of Jesse Clinton (J.C.) and Blanche Cox. Rollie grew up in Shoshoni until his junior year of high school when the family moved to Lander. During high school, he was active in band and athletics. Upon graduation, in 1942, Rollie worked on the family ranch and other ranches in the area. However, in 1944, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and headed off to World War II. He spent most of his time in MacArthur’s headquarters in the Philippines and Tokyo, Japan. In 1946, he was discharged and attended Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. It was during his time at Drake that he met the love of his life, Naomi Hare, and they were married on August, 13, 1950, following his graduation.
He obtained his first teaching job in Oregon, but returned two years later to Lander where he spent the rest of his teaching career, 36 years, at Lander Valley High School teaching math and science. Rollie and Naomi’s oldest daughter, Carol, was born in Idaho. The other three, Roger, David, and Beth were born in Lander.
He spent his summers instilling a love of the outdoors in his children while hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping. His love of travel took Rollie and his family over much of the U.S. Following his retirement, he and Naomi travelled to Alaska and Japan visiting family and friends. In 2003, three years after Naomi’s passing, Rollie married Darline Jackson, a mutual friend who had also lost her husband. They had 12 years together before a debilitating injury forced her to move closer to her daughter in Arkansas.
Rollie was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Naomi, his brothers Vollie Cox, Ralph Cox, and his sisters, Maureen Cox, and Loraine Ocenas. He is survived by his four children: Carol Ahmed of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, Roger (Miyuki) Cox of Lander, David (Cindy) Cox of Lander, and Beth (Jim) Hefenieder of Worland, Wyoming, nine grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren.
Rollie was a dedicated Christian and an active member of his church. He enjoyed travel, gardening, and outdoor activities throughout his life. During Rollie and Naomi’s 49 years together, they worked tirelessly in many activities of the church and frequently opened their home to Japanese students and other young people.
Burial was held at Mt. Hope Cemetery and a memorial service will be held in early June. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be mailed directly to Samaritan’s Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607.
On-line guest book: www.hudsonsfuneralhome.com