Roger Korte

Roger Korte, 93 of Pilot Grove passed away Thursday, March 19, 2026, at Katy Manor in Pilot Grove.

Roger’s life was one defined by hard work, devotion to family, and a love for the simple joys that brought him happiness.

He was born on May 23, 1932, in Overton, MO, a son of Gilbert and Helena (Sieckmann) Korte.

He was united in marriage to Shirley Jean Chilton on January 25, 1951, in Boonville, Missouri. Their union was blessed with three children, and together they built a life centered around faith, family, and shared memories. Shirley preceded him in death on November 3, 2009, a loss that Roger carried with him while continuing to cherish the years they spent together.

A true jack of all trades, Roger spent his working years doing a variety of jobs, never afraid of hard work and always willing to lend a hand wherever it was needed. He was well known in the community as the owner and operator of Roger’s Conoco located just outside of Pilot Grove, where he formed many lasting friendships with those he served over the years.

Roger was a faithful member of the Baptist Church in Pilot Grove, where his quiet faith and steady presence were a meaningful part of his life.

In his spare time, Roger enjoyed the excitement of watching sprint car and four-wheeler races, often cheering on his favorites with enthusiasm. He found peace in the outdoors through hunting and fishing, and he especially looked forward to his yearly trips to Colorado, where he enjoyed the beauty of the mountains and the time spent away with loved ones.

Above all, Roger treasured his family and the time they shared together. His legacy of hard work, dedication, and love for life will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Survivors include two children, Nancy Twenter (Roger, Jr.) of Pilot Grove, David Korte (Carolyn) of Laurie, MO; five grandchildren, Scotty Twenter, Simone Perrigo (Matthew), Sarah Lindley (Aaron), Melissa Combs (Quentin), Kristina Pickens (Mark, Jr.); eleven great-grandchildren, Reese Fraley, Kayley Twenter, Lindy Twenter, Bradley Schilb, Felicity Perrigo, Brooklynn Perrigo, Warren Lindley, Benjamin Lindley, Paxton Combs, Rory Combs, and Winslow Pickens; one great-great-grandchild, Shepherd Fraley.

In addition to both of his parents and his wife Shirley he was preceded in death by one son, Jackie Korte; one grandson, Calvin Korte; five brothers, Buss Korte, Boss Korte, Ben Korte, June Korte, and Walt Korte; six sisters, Hilda McClellan, Sis Self, Helen Cramer, Nadine Green, Vi Heislen, and Frances Adams.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at The Copper Penny (14006 Millsford Dr, Pilot Grove, MO 65276). Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026, at The Copper Penny with burial to follow in Walnut Grove Cemetery in Boonville. Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for their discretion and checks to be made to Nancy Twenter.