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Memorial Keepers (2)

Funeral Alternatives of Washington - Tumwater

Roger Stephens

October 29th, 1936 - October 21st, 2024

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God grant that I may live to fish until my dying day-And when it comes to my last cast-I then most humbly pray-When in the Lord's safe landing net I'm peacefully asleep-That in his mercy I be judged-As good enough to keep.

Roger was born in San Mateo, California to Carl and Lorraine Stephens, but spent his childhood in Palo Alto, California. He received his BS in Hydrology from Nevada State University and was always a proud supporter of his alma mater, which was evident by his car license plate and generous donations.

 

He spent his career as a Hydrologist for the USDA, Olympic National Forest, from 1969-1992. Being the outdoorsman he was, it was the perfect job for him. He was at one with nature. He loved Olympia, particularly its proximity to everything he enjoyed doing – fishing, hiking, cycling, and skiing. He always enjoyed reminiscing with his sons about their many adventures. Because he was always optimistic about the weather during these outings, saying “it's gonna break” when it had been raining for hours, they dubbed him the “Hippy Dippy Weatherman”, a nickname that remained with him forever. Through these experiences, his sons became avid outdoorsmen themselves with a great respect and love of nature..

 

He was a beloved husband to Diane, father to Brad and Todd, stepfather to Amy and Heather, father-in-law to Syd and Sarah, grandfather (Grandpa “Fud”, aka Laughing Bubba) to Rick, Chloe, Ayla, Ryn, Peyton, and Hutton and friend to everyone he met. He loved his family and adored his grandchildren and was always genuinely interested in what was going on in everyone's lives. He got great joy taking the grandkids fishing, pulling them behind his boat on tubes or just taking a little hike and hanging out.

 

Roger was an avid and accomplished fly fisherman who loved spending his days on Puget Sound, trying to find the elusive salmon. His passion for fishing showed in the creativity with which he tied flies and the caring way he handled the fish he caught....and released. He was admired by many fellow fly fishermen/fisherwomen. The PNW FlyFishing site won't be the same without his contributions and knowledge.

 

He was one of the kindest, most optimistic people you'd ever meet. He loved to talk and to laugh! He will be profoundly missed by his family, friends and all those whose lives he touched, including his little four-legged buddy, Murphy.

 

A celebration of Roger's life will take place in the late spring/early summer. He requested his ashes be spread on Mazama Ridge on Mt. Rainier. It will be his final hike.

 

Gone, but never forgotten.

 

In lieu of any remembrance, please donate to Olympia Union Gospel Mission, a place near and dear to Roger's heart.

We Entrusted Roger Stephens's Care To

Funeral Alternatives of Washington - Tumwater

Funeral Alternatives of Washington - Tumwater

In Tumwater, Funeral Alternatives of Washington stands as a beacon of compassion and personalization in funeral services, offering the community thoughtful and customized arrangements that honor the memory of their loved ones. We pride ourselves on providing services that reflect the individuality of each person we commemorate, ensuring that every aspect of the funeral or cremation planning is aligned with the family's wishes and budget. Our dedicated team in Tumwater takes the time to understand your preferences, assisting with everything from catering coordination to creating personalized memorial items. We manage the logistical details so you can focus on what matters most: honoring the life and legacy of your loved one....

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(360) 523-2489

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