Roger W. Westra, world traveler, engineer, Packers fan, avid skier, family man, and seasoned adventurer, passed away peacefully on June 4 at the age of 87. He spent his last weeks surrounded by his beloved wife of 63 years, Marian, four kids and their spouses, four grandkids, and a whole lot of love.

Born in Friesland, Wisconsin on April 30, 1938, Roger grew up in a lively household with six siblings — Don, Al, Will, Mert, Arlene, and Ruth. After high school, he joined the Army, then went on to earn a Civil Engineering degree from the University of Wisconsin–Platteville.

Roger's life was a series of great chapters: highway work in Madison, MBA degree from the University of Pittsburgh, and a memorable stint with Charmin Paper in Green Bay where he met a few of the 1960s Packers players.

Then came the big move to Caterpillar in Peoria, IL, where his career took off. The family soon moved to Spokane, then to Sacramento and back to Peoria. The family was living in the small town of Metamora until 1975, when Roger came home with big news: "We're moving to Switzerland!"

What followed was nothing short of epic. From ski trips in the Alps to work adventures across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, Roger made sure the family experienced the world. But no matter how far they roamed, he believed it was important for the kids to stay grounded by spending time with aunts, uncles, and cousins back in Wisconsin. So every year or two, he'd bring the family back home.

In 1985, the family moved back stateside - first to sunny Orange County, California and later to Lakewood, Colorado. Wherever they lived, Roger was always planning the next adventure with the entire family, including grandkids. From Hawaii to Cape Cod to houseboating on Lake Powell, there was always a family reunion in the works. In their later years, Roger and Marian traveled the world together. A few of Roger's favorites were a trip to New Zealand, an African safari, and a cruise through the Panama Canal.

Roger and Marian moved to Casey's Pond in Steamboat Springs, Colorado in 2022 and have been enjoying the community ever since. Roger's sense of humor was a hit with residents as was their passion for playing card games.

Roger is survived by his partner-in-everything Marian, children Jeff (JoAnn), Mike (Julie), Dianna (John) and Jason (Lisa), grandkids he adored, Craig, Jenna, Mikayla and Grace, and a legacy of love, loyalty, and fun stories.

He'll be missed more than words can say—but what a life well lived.

A celebration of life will be held at Yampa Valley Funeral Home in Steamboat Springs on Saturday, June 28th, 2025 at 11 AM.