Roy Albert Hogrebe

Roy lived a full and fascinating life, dedicating over two decades in service to the City of New York. Before the badge and uniform, he began his professional journey as a photographer in Manhattan. As a young man, he built a darkroom in the basement of his parents’ Brooklyn home, where he developed his own photos. Making a reliable living from it proved difficult, Roy then joined the New York City Police Department. After two years as an officer, he transferred to the New York City Fire Department, where he served with distinction and ultimately retired as a Fire Marshal after 21 years of dedicated service.

In 1987, Roy, Chris, and Liz moved to Florida. Having been a successful fisherman back in Brooklyn, he naturally turned his attention to the waters of the Gulf. What began as a hobby quickly became more, he did so well fishing for grouper that it became a source of income. And in true Roy fashion, he didn’t just fish—he fished big. One day, he reeled in a world-record Yellowfin Grouper that can still be seen at John’s Pass.

He later joined the Tampa Bay Sea Kayakers and quickly became a leader in the group. He thrived on the challenges of the water and loved discovering new places to explore. Roy led countless trips and, along the way, built a community of paddlers who still swap stories and “Roy-isms”.

Roy also skated and biked with the St. Pete Sunday Bladers/Bikers, where he made many close friends, including Jeff Bingham - who became like a brother to him.

And then, of course, there was the music. The home was always filled with sound—from Beethoven to Van Morrison. He was an audiophile through and through, always equipped with the top of the line stereo equipment. He insisted it made all the difference. On his fridge, he taped a quote by Jean Sibelius that said, “Music begins where words leave off.”

Roy is survived by his son, Christopher Hogrebe; his daughter, Karin L. Hogrebe; and his former wife, Elizabeth Hogrebe.

There are countless memories of Roy, and for all that knew him, those memories will always be attached to music.

Farewell, and until we meet on the other side, rest in peace Roy.

With love,

Liz and Chris

A Celebration of Life will be held at the DoubleTree Beach Resort by Hilton Hotel Tampa Bay - North Redington Beach, located at 17120 Gulf Blvd, North Redington Beach, FL 33708, United States. The event is scheduled for October 11, 2025, from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm.