Richard “Dick” Roenker, 79, of Independence, KY passed away on July 15, 2025.  Dick was a dedicated science and math teacher for a total of 34 years, having spent 10 years at Villa Madonna Academy and 24 years at Scott High School. 

Upon retiring, he continued his passion for education by teaching at Gateway where he was always eager to help the underdogs.  He enjoyed seeing others succeed. 

In addition to teaching, he also coached girls’ softball and volleyball at Scott High School and girls' water polo at Villa Madonna Academy. 

Dick enjoyed fishing, cheering on the UK Wildcats basketball team and most importantly, spending time with his cherished grandchildren.  He collected Case knives and loved John Deere tractors. Known for his kindness, Dick took his three therapy dogs, Grace, Diego and Beau to local hospitals, nursing homes and the Puppy Tales program at the Kenton County Library. 

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, John and Catherine {Harden} Roenker and his sister, Cathie Simmons.  He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Patricia “Pat” Roenker.  Children, Richard “Allen” Roenker Jr. (Dahlia), Rochelle “Amy” Overstreet (Ralph) and Robby Arrasmith (Pamela).  Dick also leaves behind his grandchildren, Taylor Coffman (Elizabeth), Kayleigh Roenker, Colson and Coby Arrasmith and Brian and Josh Overstreet.  Along with his brothers-in-law, Jeff Simmons and Jeff Hopkins (Brenda), nephews Dustin and Jay Hopkins and niece, Cydni Simmons-Meinjtes (Francois) and 8 Great-Grandchildren.  Friends and family are encouraged to celebrate Dick’s life on July 19, 2025 from 10am-12pm at Chambers and Grubbs Funeral Home, 11382 Madison Pike, Independence, KY.  Service will begin at 12pm.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made to either My Nose Turns Red Youth Circus, PO Box 14445, Cincinnati, OH 45250 or New Day Ranch, 14838 Rosenstiel Rd, Verona, KY 41092.