Obituary
Guest Book
1932
2017
COLUMBIA - Roger Joseph Fontanella, 86, died peacefully with his loving wife by his side on Thursday, May 11, 2017. Born in Dean, Cambria County, Pa., he was a son of the late Mario “Mark” Joseph Fontanella and Albina Theresa Rossa.
Roger can only be described by the feelings of those who knew him – loved and respected. Those whose good fortune brought them close to this exceptional man had the opportunity to share his courage, wisdom, wit and friendship.
He had courage in great quantity and it was displayed in this last difficult year of his life. Needing constant care the last several months, Roger managed to die as he lived – with grace and dignity. Still possessing and displaying that inward strength that characterized his uniqueness during his entire life.
Roger attended Cresson High School, Cambria County, Pa., Indiana Central University, and George Washington Law School. He worked for the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida, and South Carolina. He later went with the Department of Justice, Criminal Division, in Washington, D.C. where he retired. He was an avid hunter and loved fishing especially at the Bennetts’ condo at Pawleys Pier Village in the spring and fall. He also enjoyed his club membership at the Bull Run Fishing Club. He was also a longtime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Columbia.
He is survived by his wife, Sandra Thompson Fontanella; sons, David Mark Fontanella, Patrick Joseph Fontanella, and Robert Joseph Fontanella; daughter, Michele Marie Fontanella; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of Indianapolis; and two sisters, Rose Ann Fontanella and Debra “Debbie” Fontanella (Ronald Keith Creamer), both of Altoona, Pa. He is preceded by his parents and brother-in-law, John Simelbauer.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Oliver Gospel Mission or Harvest Hope Food Bank.
The family would like to acknowledge Blue Ridge Hospice in Irmo, S.C.; Mrs. Vera Wood and Ms. Vivian Harris who also cared for him; and Ms. Stephanie Small and her mother, Ms. Jessie Lee Boykin, whom he loved dearly.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date in Pennsylvania. Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. Please sign the online guestbook at www.dunbarfunerals.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Dunbar Funeral Home - Devine.
May 26, 2017
We have such fond memories of Roger on the Pawleys Island Pier. He taught our boys how to fish saying that 'A boy who fishes stays out of trouble.' We are grateful for his wisdom and patience.
Kat Rorison and family - Asheville, NC
May 22, 2017
Wilson
May the God of all comfort strengthen the family during this time of deep sorrow. Those who pass on, God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes. My sincerest condolences. Psalms 116:15.
May 22, 2017
Ron Cook Sr. (SLED Ret.)
Sandra,
Like Dick Oyler, Pete Logan and our dear departed friend Tony Devitz, I have many fond memories of working with Roger, as well as working with you through the Southern Bell Security office. May God's prayers and blessing be with your family, as well as with Roger. 'TO LIVE IN THE HEARTS OF THOSE YOU LEAVE BEHIND, IS NEVER TO DIE' ~Robert Orr
May 21, 2017
Warren Hughes
In deepest sympathy for your loss.
May 21, 2017
I was a Deputy Sheriff when Roger was in the Columbia Resident Office of the FBI.
Roger was without a doubt one of the best!
Richard M. Freeman
May 21, 2017
warren hughes
Sandra, Roger was one of the most wonderful gentlemen I have ever known: so wise, so good and so kind. You all had a wonderful marriage, an example for all. He adored you, a devotion you returned. He could not have wished for a better companion than you, with the joy you shared and the love you demonstrated always, especially during his illness. Love to you, his sisters, children and other family. Devotedly, Pinky and Bill Hughes
May 21, 2017
Sandra . . My heartfelt thoughts & prayers for you - as I know how much you loved & cared for Roger.
When I arrived at the FBI office in 1968 I shared ONE phone with Roger/Tony Devitz & Pete Logan. 4 of the busiest agents in the office fighting over that one phone.
Roger, like Tony &I all from Pennsylvania & he used to kid me about being from a smaller town (Dean) compared to my hometown (Kane, Pa.) I also remember going to Dean with Roger & meting his Dad Mark, a tough, tough guy, that Roger inherited his tough genes from.
Gambling cases, fishing trips, sports talks, etc. all are fond members of Roger. Both Pete & I thought the world of Roger & he was truly one of the best friends that God ever gave me.
Nancy tried to comfort me when we listened to Pete's message about Roger, as she also knew how much Roger meant to me. I loved him like a brother & will always remember our good times together.
He was lucky to have you for his wife & he always told me how much he loved you & appreciated all you did for him. You two had a great life together & please remember all the good times. We love you as well Sandra. Dick & Nancy Oyler
May 21, 2017
Sherry Blanchette French
Sandra, so sorry to read of Roger's death in the paper. I know he was a wonderful man and so courageous through all his illness. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
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