Joseph Roger Dolak

Joseph Roger Dolak, known to all as J.R. or Roger, peacefully entered eternal rest on Sunday evening, November 23, 2025, at Fairfax Hospital. He was 94 years old and looking forward to being reunited with his beloved wife of 54 years, Marjorie, and his cherished daughter, Janessa, who preceded him in death.

Born in Belle Plaine, Iowa to Joseph George and Thelma Dolak, Roger grew up in the small town of Belle Plaine with a love for fishing with his father and friends. He also loved playing basketball in his youth and continued playing throughout high school. Answering his country’s call at the start of the Korean War, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy right after High School in 1950, serving honorably until 1953 as an avionics engineer, maintaining bomber aircraft and traveling to bases around the world.

Following his military service, Roger pursued his education at Iowa State University, earning his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering on June 15, 1957. He went on to build a long and successful career with AT&T, contributing his expertise and dedication for decades.

Roger’s strong faith in God was central to his life. He was a devoted member of O.L.G.C. in Vienna, where he served as a lector at Sunday Mass for over 30 years and then at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in Great Falls. After retirement, he found great joy and purpose teaching CCD to high school students for more than a decade, teaching and sharing his faith with the next generation.

His greatest pride was his family. Roger was a devoted husband who tenderly cared for Marjorie through her battles with breast and ovarian cancer, and taking care of her faithfully by her side for over 20 years after she survived her cancer .

He passed on his love of the outdoors to his children and grandchildren, taking them camping and fishing, creating memories they will forever treasure.

Roger is survived by his son, David; his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his two younger sisters, Pam and Roxanne. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, devotion, and love that will continue through all those whose lives he touched.

A viewing will be held at Money and King Funeral Home in Vienna, Virginia. Thursday December 11 and A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church on Friday, December 12, at 11:30 a.m. Roger will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife Marjorie at Fairfax Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church,1020 Springvale Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066 or a charity of your choice.