He led the community, quietly
Roger Morse was an uncommon man who will be remembered not only as a gentleman but as a gentle man who dedicated his life to serving others.
When a young KU journalism graduate came to town in 1948 he volunteered to help Kiwanians (not yet a member) produce the annual community festival, Old Settlers' Day.
He was assigned to Roger's committee, publicity and promotion. Several days were dedicated to the job, taking Morse away from his busy law practice. They traveled the county, put up posters, and visited with people of prominence. The younger man welcomed the opportunity to get acquainted with a man who was highly regarded. They drove and visited, discovering they were of different political parties but held surprisingly similar views.
Following the event the young reporter received a perfectly typed letter of thanks on the law firm's engraved letterhead. He was impressed and remains so today.
Roger Morse was the kind of guy who as a Democrat was elected county attorney, in highly Republican Marion County.
He was the kind of guy who hosted his entire family on resort vacations.
He and Marie were a team. They often were the "anonymous" donor who assured local worthy projects the financial support needed.
This being a personal tribute to a friend, it would be negligent to not speak of Roger's role at the 9 a.m. coffee break held at Marion Pharmacy. He was the steady hand, the man respected by all others, and he/they enjoyed the daily event for years. His chair is empty, but his counsel remains.
Roger was the kind of guy who always wore a suit and tie, even to casual events like a Kiwanis pancake day, picnic, or while playing ball with youngsters.
Although quiet by nature he loved a good ball game, supporting his favorite team but never bad-mouthing the opponents.
He grew up in meager circumstances but worked his way through one of the nation's most prestigious law schools.
During World War II he entered service as a private, quickly worked his way up to sergeant, graduated from OCS, and was stationed at an Air Corps base near Pampa, Texas. At the end of the war Roger came home with captain's bars. He earned them.
A couple or so years ago Roger rode in an open convertible in the annual OSD parade with three fellow 50-year Kiwanians. Dr. E.K. Schroeder, retired and regarded dentist was the first to go. Roger now has joined him. The young, now old, reporter and Dean Batt, Roger's long time law partner remain.
Folks often reflect concern that "things aren't like they used to be." Truly so, what is needed are more men like Roger Morse.
— BILL MEYER
