A little background for those that do not know me, I am the oldest of Roger Theder’s children and his only son. As I think of my Dad who I affectionately called “Rog”, I think of the lives he touched and the number of people who cared for him. Just reading posts on facebook and twitter has made my family and I so proud and happy. To us he was just Dad, but he had a huge family that grew throughout his life and career and I hope this site can be a place where we all come together in honor of Rog.
When I think of the qualities that describe my father these words come to mind – competitive, outgoing, passionate, hard working, loyal, dependable, strong.
As the first-born and only son, we didn’t always see eye-to-eye. I could be stubborn, sarcastic, and too clever for my own good. This is all understandable because I learned from the best. Over time, however, we grew closer, and I came to realize how much of my father I have in me. It turned out that I inherited many of his character traits and am thankful for each and every one of them.
But what I’ll always appreciate most was the life he created for our family and the path my life has taken because of the opportunities he created for me.
On October 1st Rog passed away after being rushed to the hospital that morning with trouble breathing. He died of complications from Parkinsons which had been taking away the things that made Rog, Rog. In the moment when his soul left his body I did not feel the universe change. I did not feel Dad’s presence leave me; nor do I feel it gone now. Sure, our world is a little less bright since we’ll miss his stories, his coaching, and his friendship. But his spirit is still with us, in our memories, and in our hearts. He’ll always be close by to listen, to support us when we need it. We are all immeasurably stronger for having him as a part of our lives, and that is all he ever wanted for us.
I miss you, Dad. I love you.