Roger W. Ziegler

Franklin- Roger Ziegler, age 78 passed away on Monday, April 7, 2025 at Overlook Hospital in Summit. He was born in Irvington , New Jersey, the youngest child of the late George and Elinor (nee Schweibert) Ziegler. At two years of age, his family moved back to the Lake Mohawk section of Sparta, where they remained until 1967. After graduating from Sparta High School, he enrolled at Seton Hall University, graduating with a degree in history and political science. In the fall of 1969, he began his teaching career when Hopatcong High School opened for the first time. While there, he was twice named Teacher of the Year and was its only recipient of the Prestigious Mort Pye Award from the Star Ledger. Shortly after, Roger enlisted in the New Jersey National Guard, attaining the rank of Specialist Fifth Class. To supplement his income, he worked a number of “second jobs” such as a bartender, nursing home cook, truck driver, construction laborer and school maintenance worker. Later, he established a side business refinishing furniture from his garage sales treasures and finds. While in college, Roger worked at Perona Farms rising from bus boy to Maitre D’ and banquet manager. It was there that his future changed when he met the love of his life, Donna Muleucis. They were married May 25, 1968 and started their family ten months later. They moved throughout the county from Newton to Andover to Hopatcong and finally settled in Franklin, where they lived for over forty years. While there, he coached T-ball baseball, Midget Football, girls softball and was a member of the recreation commission. He was also elected to four terms on the Franklin Board of Education during which he was president for six years. Shortly after celebrating their fiftieth wedding anniversary, Donna passed away. Besides Donna, Roger was preceded in death by his son, Kristian “Kitch” Ziegler; his sisters, Arlayne and Caroline; and his brother, George. He is survived by his daughter, Kirstin Sabo and her husband William; his son, Keven Ziegler and his wife Amy; his grandchildren, Lexa, Kia, and Grayson Sabo; Mason and Clayton Ziegler, and Alexandra and Addyson Ziegler; many nieces and nephews; and an old and new dear friend, Mercedes Mowdy. A celebration of life for family and friends will be held at a later date. Please check for updated information on the funeral home website. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Roger Ziegler’s memory to the Franklin Library, 103 Main Street, Franklin, NJ 07416. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Pinkel Funeral Home, 31 Bank Street (Route 23), Sussex, New Jersey. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.pinkelfuneralhome.com

Roger W. Ziegler

February 1, 1947 - April 7, 2025