Roger Moreno Yanez

Roger Moreno Yanez, aged 90, passed away on January 18, 2025, in Tucson, AZ. Born on October 21, 1934, in Morenci, AZ, Roger led a life marked by dedication, service, and passion.

Roger proudly served in the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division from 1953 to 1956 and continued his military career with the 161st Aerial Refueling Wing of the Arizona Air National Guard for over 30 years. He achieved the rank of Master Sergeant and participated in notable deployments during the Korean War and Vietnam War. His commendations include the National Defense Service Medal, Parachutist Badge, Vietnam Service Medal, Air Force Distinguished Rifleman, Air Force Distinguished Pistol Shot, Air Force Commendation Medal, and many more.

Roger served as a loadmaster on the Boeing C-97 Stratofreighter, delivering cargo to Vietnam, and later as the boom operator on a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker, responsible for safely and effectively transferring aviation fuel from one military aircraft to another during flight. He then became a weapons instructor.

Roger is survived by his sister Blanche Roman (Joe), daughters Melody Brown (Larry) and Denise Yanez (Julian), son Daniel Yanez, and granddaughter Candiece Garcia. He was predeceased by his father Arnulfo Yanez, mother Belen Moreno Yanez, brothers William Yanez and James Yanez, and granddaughter Danielle Yanez.

Roger's career outside the military included working as an Engineering Technician for the City of Phoenix. He was also an author, publishing "The Death of Professional Boxing" in 2016 and its revised edition, "Metathesiophobia," in 2020. Additionally, Roger was a professional boxing referee, officiating more than 3,100 fights over five decades, including 30 title bouts for great boxers like Willie Pep, Zora “Bell” Folley, Salvador Sanchez, Terry Norris, Sugar Ray Leonard, and Michael Carbajal.

In 2005, Roger was formally recognized for his contributions as a sports official by being inducted into the Arizona Hispanic Sports Hall of Fame.

Roger was an avid fisherman, hunter, prospector, and competitive rifle and pistol shooter. His legacy is one of service, dedication, and love for his family and community.

Roger will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.