Roger Dale Cobgill
Roger Dale Cogbill, 76. Peacefully passed from this world on Friday September 4, 2026. He was the second of four children born to Earl W. and Betty ( Harbaugh) Cogbill on January 15, 1950 in Joplin. He was a graduate of Joplin High School class of 1968. Like most of the men in his graduating class he was expecting and finally received an “invite” to join his Uncle Sam. Before he received his “invite” to join the military he met, dated and married Marlene Shanks. They were wed on October 10, 1969. Less than a month later Roger was off to Basic Training. After completing Basic he had the great fortune of being stationed in beautiful Fort Bliss just outside of El Paseo, TX. His wife was soon able to join him and the young couple enjoyed the deserts drastically different scenery. His last duty station was at Fort Riley, Kansas.
After being honorably discharged from the US Army the young couple stayed in Manhattan, KS. By 1973 he was ready to really settle down and start his family. He and his wife moved back to Joplin and welcomed their first child in early 1974. Then in 1976 they welcomed their second child and with his family complete, he settled into the business and challenges of family life.
Roger started his working career at Fleming Foods and stayed with them until they closed the Joplin warehouse. In the early 2000’s with an empty nest Roger and Marlene sold their home in Joplin and moved to Anderson, Mo with Indian Creek for their backyard! They bought “The Water House “ for a place to host family and friends and host they did. Countless children and adults were given a chance to catch their first fish, tadpole, or crawdad. The fire pit at the water house was the central gathering place, many of the worlds toughest problems were solved there but the proper way to start, maintain, and extinguish a fire is a question that will never be answered. After nearly 20 years at the creek Roger made the decision to move back to Joplin. He found a house that was easier to maintain and with fewer stairs.
Roger was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Greg, and Eric Cogbill, sisters’-in-law Melinda Shanks and Betty Smart and brother-in-law Kenny McKnight.
His survivors include his loving wife of 56 years; children Brian and wife Amber, Jennifer Cogbill; grandchildren Misty DeFir and husband Clayton, Ryley Cogbill, and Cade Cogbill; great grandchildren Taira and Winter; sister Niela McKnight, brother-in-law Randy Shanks and wife Dana; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Per his instructions: “a traditional memorial service just isn’t my style”. So to honor his request a come and go reception is scheduled for Monday September 7, 2026, from 2 pm to 6 pm at Randy and Dana’s home. Reach out to our family for directions and further details.
Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory of Joplin, MO
