Roger Dale Chiolino

Roger Dale Chiolino of Newport passed into the Lord’s hands on April 16, 2026, at the age of 81, with his family at his side.

Roger was born on January 23, 1945, in Nankin Township, Michigan. He attended Wyandotte Roosevelt High School, graduating in January 1963. During his early years, he was known for his strong work ethic, holding jobs in retail, welding, and operating his own lawn care service.

He attended Eastern Michigan University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Business Education in June 1969, and later a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership.

Roger dedicated his life to education. From 1969 until his retirement in 1997, he taught business classes at Airport Community Schools, where he made a lasting impact on many students.

He was active in several organizations, including the Sons and Daughters of Pearl Harbor Survivors and various education associations, and served as president of the Airport Education Association.

On February 14, 1987, Roger married the love of his life, Carol Kanitz. Together, they created lasting memories cruising side by side, from the warm Caribbean waters to the Pacific and Mediterranean, and onward to the cool, scenic waters of Alaska.

A man of strong faith, Roger attended Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Port Charlotte, Florida, and Community Lutheran Church in Flat Rock, Michigan. For 27 years, he and Carol enjoyed life as snowbirds, traveling between Michigan and Florida.

Roger enjoyed gardening, woodworking, and cruising with his wife. He loved the thrill of garage sales, always searching for his next treasure and bargain. He was a devoted fan of the Detroit Red Wings and University of Michigan football and enjoyed watching and collecting DVD’s.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Charles Chiolino; his mother, Katherine Marie Lipscomb (Bornholdt); his stepfather, Gerald Lineal Lipscomb; and his brother, Richard Chiolino.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Carol; his daughters, Kathleen and Lori Chiolino; his stepchildren, Robert (Lisa) Masserant of Newport and Carrie (Wayne) Zasada of Newport; eight grandchildren, Brandon (Helena) Masserant, Cassidy (Andrew) Niemi, Corbin (Kendyl) Masserant, Morgan Roberts, Sydney Masserant, Abigail Roberts, Joshua Roberts, and Luke Masserant, and two great-grandchildren, Hayes and Hutson Masserant.

Roger will be remembered as a devoted husband, man of faith, and dedicated teacher whose kindness and commitment touched many lives.