Celebration of Life

Musical theater and choral music lost a unique and talented person August 12, 2025. Roger was born June 10, 1953, to Clarence and Ermadyne Smith in Yakima, WA, grew up in Tieton and Almira, WA, and graduated from Pacific Lutheran University in 1975. A long-time resident of Portland, OR, he had a career in the offices of various religious and medical institutions. Most important to Roger were musical theater and choral music. Roger was choir director at the Unity Spiritual Center of Portland in the early 2000s. He dedicated his later years to Satori Men’s Chorus, where he served as board chair in its 2024-25 season. Satori will profoundly miss Roger’s dedication and the lighthearted touch he brought to his solo performances.
Roger is survived by his brother, Brad (Katharine Holmes), of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
A celebration of life is scheduled for 1 PM September 25th at Unity Spiritual Center of Portland, 4525 SE Stark St., Portland.