Roland R. Greer

Roland R. Greer, better known "Greer" or "Poppy" a man of grit and heart, passed away on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at the age of 80 at CRMC in Coffeyville, Kansas. Born in Paola, Kansas on November 1, 1943, to Edward C. and Pearl Mae (Amos) Greer, Roland's journey through life was marked by dedication, hard work, and an unyielding love for his family. 

From humble beginnings, Roland carved out a respectable career, beginning with Norman Electronics before finding his true calling on the Railroad. Roland began his career with the Railroad as a machinist advancing to an engineer with Missouri Pacific, later known and Union Pacific. Spending time away from his family was hard, but he did it to make a better living for them. After 40 years of dedication, he hung up his work boots for good in 2009. He didn’t just clock in and out; he built a legacy on the rails that will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. 

Education wise, Roland's formative years were spent in Kansas, where he started school in Osawatomie before completing his elementary and secondary education at Field Kindley Memorial High School in Coffeyville. Those years laid the foundation for a life dedicated to craftsmanship and family.

Roland was a loyal figure of strength, beloved by his wife Patsy K. (Vanderpool), whom he married on June 9, 1963, strongly committed for over six decades of shared trials and triumphs. Together, they bore two sons—Robert Greer, and Eddie Greer, Coffeyville has always been home. 

A true craftsman, Roland had a gift for finish carpentry, creating stunning cabinetry and unique pieces that stand as testament to his skill and love for family. He was meticulous in all that he did, though he'd often leave projects unfinished, until he could figure out how to finish it. His free time was spent outdoors, whether hunting, or simply enjoying the peacefulness of their lake property, or the timbers or sitting on the deck of the cabin in Chautauqua County. There, he would enjoy sitting quietly in the deer stand with his hunting partner Rylee, savoring the peace that nature provided and spending that special time with his boys and his family. 

Roland was known for his playful ornery nature and outspoken demeanor. He wasn’t one for small talk but had a way of coaxing smiles and laughter from those fortunate enough to share a moment with him. His devotion to his family was unwavering; he loved to spoil them, never passing up an opportunity to shower them with affection. He cherished his granddaughter Krista Greer and grandson Rylee Greer. To them, he was not just a grandpa he was "Poppy"; he was their partner in the wild adventure of life. He also had a special place in his heart for his dogs, he always made sure to have a chosen treat for his four-legged companions, who lived in a world of luxury thanks to his generosity.

Roland didn’t know restraint when it came to stocking up—he bought in bulk so that his family would never go without. That spirit of preparedness and abundance was a hallmark of his approach to life. He embraced every moment, mowing even when the grass looked fine, simply to enjoy the rush of engine and fresh air. 

He is survived by his beloved family and will be sorely missed most of all by his wife Pat of the home, sons Robert Greer and wife Kate who Roland loved as his daughter, Eddie Greer, grandchildren Krista Greer and fiancé Nick Kelley and grandson Rylee Geer. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Margie. 

Roland’s Memorial Graveside Service will be held at Fairview Cemetery-Veterans Memorial Patio in Coffeyville, Kansas, on Friday, October 18, 2024 at 2pm under the direction of Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel. To leave an online condolence or share a memory visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com