Roland Ludger Jabotte, age 80, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at the Hines VA Hospital in Hines, Illinois.

Roland is survived by his wife, Denise; his daughter, Erica; his son-in-law, Chris; and his grandchildren, Zak and Lylah.

Roland was born on April 9, 1945, in Waltham, Massachusetts, to Romeo and Yvonne Jabotte. He was preceded in death by his sister, Lorraine. After graduating from Mount St. Charles High School in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, in 1966, Roland enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he proudly served his country, rising to the rank of Sergeant before being honorably discharged after two years of service.

Following his military service, Roland attended Providence College and Bryant University, pursuing studies in Business Management. After relocating to Illinois in 1977, he completed his education at the College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, earning his degree in Business Management and graduating cum laude.

Roland built an accomplished career spanning more than three decades in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, and Information Technology. He held senior leadership roles with globally recognized organizations, including Mitsubishi, Manugistics, Kraft Foods, Kellogg, Bosch USA, Unilever, and OfficeMax. He concluded his professional career as a Senior Consultant supporting the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), where he held a high-level security clearance and was entrusted with complex, mission-critical work.

In retirement, Roland found great joy in serving as a docent at the Chicago Field Museum, where he shared his knowledge, curiosity, and love of learning with others.

Roland was an avid golfer, a culinary and train enthusiast, and a lifelong aviation aficionado. He cherished cheering on his beloved Boston Bruins, Chicago Cubs, Bears, Downers Grove North Football, and Lady Trojans Basketball. He especially enjoyed traveling and discovering the world alongside his wife, Denise—his favorite companion in all of life’s adventures.

Above all, Roland was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather. He will be remembered as a wise mentor, an animal lover, a historian, and an extraordinary man who selflessly put others before himself. He approached life with an open mind and deep curiosity—a philosophy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers or other gifts, please honor his legacy by making a small donation to The Morton Arboretum Tribute Gift Donation in his name.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, clinicians, and staff at the Hines VA Hospital for their exceptional care, compassion, and empathy.

Arrangements entrusted to Cappetta’s West Suburban Funeral Home

Info 630-852-8000 or westsuburbanfh.com