Roger was born on the island of Faial, in the Azores. His family immigrated to America when he was 11 years old, where he briefly lived in Hollister before moving to the valley. He graduated from Merced High School and then served for two years in the Army during the Vietnam War. A year after returning from Vietnam, Roger married Diane Fontes. Together they lived in Merced and raised their daughter Michelle and son David. Roger worked as a maintenance mechanic, for the Ragu Foods plant in Merced where he retired after 36 years. He provided a wonderful life for his family. They are so grateful for all his love and hard work and will miss him very much.
Roger was happiest being outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, camping, and especially fishing. He loved gardening. He took pride in planting and caring for his many fruit trees and was always ready to share fruits and vegetables with friends and family that stopped by. He was a great cook and made wonderful family meals, especially during birthdays and holidays. He was always ready to go to any Portuguese Festa with friends and family, and after retirement, he really enjoyed traveling and cruising. He was so happy when he was able to travel back to the Azores islands and remember his childhood.
He was preceded in death by his mother Maria and father Eduino, sisters Maria and Aldina, and grandson Ryan. Roger is survived by his wife of 54 years, Diane, his brother Silvino and sister-in-law Branca, his daughter Michelle, his son David, daughter-in-law Amanda, five grandchildren: Aelah, Evan, Sofia, Emma, and Ethan, and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service for Roger will be held on Tuesday, December 12th, at 10:30 AM at the Stratford Evans Funeral Home in Merced. Graveside services will take place at the Merced Cemetery District, and a small reception will follow at the Stratford Evans Funeral Home.
