Trueman James Roragen (“T.J.”), born December 3, 1936, in Sundal Township, MN, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2026, in The Villages, FL, at the age of 89. Trueman was the fourth of twelve children born to Madeline (Erstad) Roragen and Lawrence K. Roragen.

After graduating high school in 1955, Trueman enlisted in the United States Air Force, beginning what would become a distinguished 24-year military career. After his initial enlistment ended, Trueman used G.I. Bill benefits to enroll at Moorhead State College (now Minnesota State University – Moorhead) and earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and secondary education. He also joined the Air Force Reserves and qualified for Officer Candidate School. Upon graduation and receiving his commission, Trueman was recalled to active duty where he remained until October 1, 1979. His service included several tours of duty throughout Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War, and he was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal (with 2 oak leaf clusters), Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (with Valor), Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. His military career also included a posting at the Strategic Air Command’s underground command center, Offutt AFB, NE. He fulfilled his duties with courage, commitment, and pride.

After retiring from the military, Trueman discovered a passion for computers and technology. In 1979 at the age of 43, he went back to school to learn programming in COBOL and BAL. He then embarked on a fulfilling second career as a systems and database administrator, applying the same discipline and skill he had shown in the Air Force to an entirely new and rapidly evolving field. His enthusiasm for learning never diminished.

In 1963, Trueman married Joan (Harris) Roragen. Together they raised two sons: Kevin and Keith. Trueman was a dedicated father who instilled in his children the importance of hard work, integrity, and intellectual curiosity.

In 1995, Trueman married Ada “Polly” (Marchman) Roragen, with whom he shared a loving and supportive partnership. Trueman and Polly first met when he was an enlisted man stationed at Keesler AFB, MS. They reunited and found love later in life, as well. After their retirements, the couple were among the first residents of a new Florida retirement community called “The Villages,” and where they have been ever since. Trueman and Polly built a joyful life together, surrounded by friends, sunshine, and a community they cherished. They particularly enjoyed travelling together all over the globe and being season passholders at Walt Disney World. Trueman and Polly visited every Disney World resort on every continent.

Trueman enjoyed golf, sailing his R/C sailboat, watching baseball and football, reading, and playing and solving games and puzzles of all types. He always rooted for his beloved Atlanta Braves and for the Minnesota Vikings. He will be remembered for his sharp mind, steady presence, and unwavering dedication to Polly. His life spanned eras of tremendous change, yet he met each chapter with resilience, adaptability, and grace.

Trueman leaves behind his wife, Polly; sons Kevin Roragen (Jill) of DeWitt, MI and Keith Roragen (Jessica) of Omaha, NE; along with Polly’s children, Randy Marchman (Elizabeth) of Blue Ridge, GA and Kara Jacobson (Terry) of Atlanta, GA; grandchildren Olivia Roragen of Phoenix, AZ, Philip Roragen of Haslett, MI, Douglas Shafer of Omaha, NE; Logan Marchman of Blue Ridge, GA, Ariel Jacobson of Atlanta, GA and Katie Jacobson of New York, NY; as well as Joan Roragen of Green Valley, AZ; one surviving brother, Lauren Roragen of Tucson, AZ; special cousin Carol (Omlid) Andvik of Fargo, ND, and many other cousins, nieces and nephews.

Consistent with Trueman’s wishes, there will be no services, and cremation has already taken place. Contributions in Trueman’s memory, if desired, should be made to a veterans’ support organization of your choice.

Hva du har vært vil vi aldri glemme. (“What you have been we will never forget”)

– traditional Norwegian poem