Roland F. Birkner
Formerly of Arlington Heights

Roland F. Birkner, of Huntley, was born June 23, 1936 in Passaic, New Jersey to John and Gertrude (nee Kunz) Birkner. He died peacefully on Monday, January 11, 2010 at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights, surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Birkner spent most of his career as a sales manager for MPC Products Corporation. He served in the Navy during the Korean War from 1954 until 1957 and enjoyed gardening and travel. But, most of all, he enjoyed being with and spoiling his cherished grandchildren, who will miss him dearly.

Roland is survived by his beloved bride of 50 years, wife Catherine “Cookie” nee Manzo, whom he married on September 6, 1959; his children, Roland (Kim) of Palatine, Patricia (Brian) Marshall of Mt. Prospect and Susan (Jeff) Chumbley of St. Charles; his grandchildren, Kelly, Dan, Michelle, David, Trevor, Taylor and Tegan; his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son, Scott Michael Birkner; his parents; and his brother John Birkner.

Visitation from 3:00 PM until 9:00 PM, Thursday, January 14, 2010 at the Glueckert Funeral Home, Ltd., 1520 N. Arlington Heights Rd., (4 blocks south of Palatine Rd.) Arlington Heights. Prayers 10:15 AM, Friday, January 15, 2010 from the Glueckert Funeral Home, Ltd., to St. Edna Catholic Church 2525 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights for Mass at 11:00 A.M. Interment St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery in Palatine, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Misericordia, Heart of Mercy, 6300 North Ridge Avenue, Chicago, IL 60660-1017.