Raleigh, North Carolina
- Roger "Dodge" John Cawiezell, 77, of Raleigh, NC passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 4th, 2023. Roger was born on February 3rd, 1946 in Davenport, Iowa, the son of John and Elsie Cawiezell. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers, Chuck and Jim Cawiezell, and his infant daughter Caron Margaret Cawiezell.
He is survived by his wife Sarita Hardy Cawiezell, children, Kristen Cawiezell Donaghy, John Scott Charles Cawiezell, Roger Jacob Cawiezell, all of Raleigh, NC and 6 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren that he adored.
Roger graduated with a BS degree in political science from St. Ambrose University in 1970. Roger was a successful Life Insurance salesman, financial planner, and business owner.    During the course of his career at Franklin Life, he received every company sales and management honor available and retired in 1997. He was active in his community through organizing, fundraising and hosting charitable events. Roger was also an avid golfer, sportsman, and traveler. He was also known as a great motivator and mentor to countless people over his lifetime.
At the age of 55, Roger received the devastating diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis. For 20 plus years he fought a courageous battle against a ruthless disease. It was humbling for him and painful for his family and those who loved him. His strength and courage throughout this difficult time was an inspiration to us all. One shining example would be, how ten plus years into his bout with MS, he decided to author a sales/self help book called, "The Success Cycle". By this time, his body had been crippled to the point of paraplegia and the use of only his left(non dominant) hand. It took years to complete, but he never gave up. This is one of the best examples of his larger than life, positive, getter-done persona.  He was strong, charismatic and had a great sense of humor. Roger was loved and admired by his family and friends. He will be greatly missed.
As was his desire no funeral service will be provided.
Memorial donations may be made in Roger's name to Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital, www.stjude.org.
'He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death'[a] or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." Revelation 21:4