Roger Dale Eitel, 69, of Green Top MO passed away Tuesday July 28th 2026 at MU Hospital in Columbia MO.

The son of John and Reva Eitel he was born August 23, 1956 in Kirksville MO. Roger graduated from the Republic Public High School in 1974.

At age 16 he started playing drums for different shows in and around Branson MO area. He played for the Ozark Mountain Hayride and open for Barbara Mandrell among others.

Rodger joined the Navy in 1975 as an aviation mechanic and troubleshooter on the US Independence Carrier. After leaving the Navy he continued playing music and was Certified Automotive mechanic in Santa Fe New Mexico. Roger also worked at Walmart for a total of 15 years.

Roger is survived by his fiancé Sharon Gladbach, one sister Sandra Williams of the state of Mississippi and his cousin Richard Eitel of Greentop MO along with other cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents John and Reva Eitel and his son John Dale Eitel.

Graveside services will be Saturday August 1, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Green City MO with full military rights.

Memorial donations in memory of Roger may be made to the Crossing Church and may be left at or mailed to Travis-Noe Funeral Home, Kirksville, MO 63501.