Roger Clark Rookstool Sr., 66, passed away on Monday, Feb. 22, 2016. Roger was born and raised in Indiana, but had been a resident of Chattanooga for the past ten years. He served 12 years in the military including two tours in the Vietnam War. Roger entered the United States Marine Corps at the age of 17 and became a Sergeant who repaired communication lines. Later, he joined the United States Army. A Chief Warrant Officer, he flew helicopters in Vietnam with the Army Aviation "The Flying Eagles 101" and later in the states as a Medic-vac Pilot.

Roger flew helicopters in the private sector for 27 years, working in Saudi Arabia 5 years, Egypt 7 and Nigeria 15 years. He retired from Bristol Helicopters in January of 2015. Known by his colleagues as a "maverick" pilot, he was respected by all as a great pilot, teacher, and instructor. His safety record was second to none. Ranking in the top 2% of ST pilots in the world, he logged 30,000+ hours within the private sector. He was also a skilled Instrument Pilot. He will long be remembered by those who benefited from his exceptional skills.

Roger was preceded in death by his father and mother, Clifford Clark and Celia Humphreys Rookstool and one brother, Lonnie Rookstool. He is survived by his companion, Cecilie Roman; three sons, Eddie Rookstool, Roger Rookstool and Nick Rookstool; four daughters, Erica Smith, Echell Crimshaw, Vanessa Brown and Angela Sirus; one brother, Jerry Rookstool; two sisters, Beverly Cook and Kathy Owen; 9 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; several nieces and nephews; and Man's Best Friend, his beloved dog Scrappy Doo, who was with him to the end. Gravesides services will be held at Chattanooga National Cemetery on Friday March 4, 2016 at 2:30 pm. Interment will follow with Military Honors. The family will receive friends Friday March 4, 2016 from 12:00 noon until 2:00 pm. You may visit the online guestbook at www.turnerfamilyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are by Turner Funeral Home, Inc., Hwy 58 Chapel 423-622-3171.


Bev Cook
bevcook1961@gmail.com