Roger was 40 years old when he died on March 13, 2002. Another life cut too short by the tragedy of the HIV/AIDS crisis.
Before the heartbreak, there was fun, parties, laughter, and close friendships. For those fortunate enough to know him, Roger freely shared his feelings and life experiences, his laughter, wisdom, strong opinions, and openness with such zeal, that no one could resist his sparkling personality. His lightheartedness, honesty and optimism won him many friends, and his loyalty and unconditional love kept many close to him.
Roger Jr. was the son of Roger Sr. and Barbara, and the brother of Lisa and BiBi. Roger loved traveling and meeting new people. He had an appreciation of music, and blessed with his father’s vocal talent and his mother’s legs, Roger was never too shy to sing or shake his groove dancing away when he felt so inclined.
Professionally, Roger earned his wings and flew with Royal Airlines as a flight attendant until the mid-nineties. He began working for American Express (AMEX), and his resourcefulness, positive attitude, and wit were most appreciated by colleagues and clients.
In 1996, Roger began donating his time and vitality to the AIDS Committee of Toronto. He added life, love, humor, and hard work to years of Fashion Cares and Dancers for Life events, and The Aids Walk. Roger was truly genuine and committed to whom and what he believed in.
After many years when his surviving friends had become old and grey, and still visit Toronto’s AIDS Memorial and touch his name on the 2002 memorial plaque, he is still missed terribly.