Roger passed away in the hospital on Friday, Dec.23 at the age of 71 of respiratory complications from flu and pneumonia with family surrounding him. Deeply loved husband of Linda Delorme (nee Calderone), loving father of Gayla (Eric O’Connor), Derek and Trevor and much-loved stepfather to Julianne Cameron (Richard Groen), Christopher Smith (Heather Sissons) and Lori Delorme. Lovingly remembered late wife Shirley (Sceviour). He adored his grandchildren Marissa, Mallorie, Brianna, Alivia, Jaden, Reid, and Ellie. Roger was very close to his sister Darlene Brewster (Donald), and his brothers Larry and Brian who live in New Brunswick.
Fiercely proud of his time in the naval branch of the Canadian military and his many years as a member of the 291-communications trade researcher and security family. He joined the military in June 1971 and finally retired in 2015. During this time, he was posted to Gander, Alert, San Diego, Inuvik, Bermuda, Masset, Leitrim, Ottawa and finally worked another 13 years for the Communications Research Centre in Ottawa.
Roger was an AVID fan of his beloved Toronto Maple Leafs and his Toronto Blue Jays.
Special thanks to the ALS clinic team, Dr. Breiner, Dr. Buenger, Belinda Zehrt who was always there for us and especially to Marc Williams, an extraordinary nurse from Bayshore nursing who came to our home for the past two years and enriched the quality of our lives with his skill and humour.
A deeply heartfelt thank you to family and friends who helped give Roger 24-hour care at the hospital due to his special needs. There are no words that can truly acknowledge your commitment To Roger at our time of great need. It lifted his spirits and let him know how much he was loved.
Visitation at Beechwood Funeral & Cemetery on Sunday, Jan. 8 at 11:30 followed by the service at 1:30 and reception. Burial of ashes to take place at National Military Cemetery (Beechwood) on Thursday, June 8 at 3p.m.
Donations to the ALS society in Roger’s memory would be greatly appreciated.
Digital Guestbook
Peter Van Roon
Sally McCarthy
My sincere condolences to Roger's family and especially to his sister, Darlene. I have heard Darlene speak many times of her brother over the years and know he will be sadly missed. Sending prayers for peace and comfort at this difficult time.
Donald and Marilyn Bubar
Roger was such a fun person to be around. I remember Roger since a young boy having a great sense of humor. Was glad to meet again a few years ago as our mothers were residents at CCNH, Hartland. In the summer Roger would come from Ottawa to visit his mom and oh the laughs we all had. RIP Roger.
Ray Lebeau
To Linda, Gayla, Derek, Trevor, Julianne, Christopher, Lori, Family Members & Friends,
The members of the Canadian Forces Supplementary Radio (SUPRAD) System Oldtimers Association were deeply saddened by the news of Roger's passing. We sincerely thank Roger, for his loyalty and dedicated service as a 291 Communicator Research SIGINT operator. During his career with the Royal Canadian Navy, Roger made many good friends. All those who had the privilege of proudly serving with Roger at stations in Gander NL, Alert (the most northern permanently inhabited settlement in the world), San Diego California, Inuvik NWT, Bermuda, Masset QCI and Leitrim ON, will forever remember all of the enjoyable times that were shared. You can be sure that because of Roger being an avid fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs, it lead to a lot of playful teasing. Please know that as members of your extended military family we will be keeping you in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
'Friends Forever'
Jim and Marilyn Murphy
Linda and family, please accept our sincere condolences on Roger's passing. I had the honour of working with him the thirteen years before his retirement. As stated by many of his fellow 291 brothers, he was a gentleman, a fine tradesman and he took great pride in his work and profession. Fair winds and following seas, my friend. We have the watch. God bless you and your family.
John and Eileen Walsh
I had the pleasure of working with Roger in Bermuda. A very quiet man with a great sense of humour. Roger and Shirley will be greatly missed
Dean Balkham
I had the pleasure of working with Roger in Bermuda. He was a great supervisor and even greater person to work with. My condolences to his family and friends. He will be missed.
Pierre Lauzon
Very sorry to hear that Roger passed. He was a great guy who was always happy. He respected everyone and was always ready to help anyone. My sincere condolences to all family members and friends. RIP my friend.
Rick Green
My first posting was to Inuvik on Rogers Shift, He was the BTC. I learned a lot from him a great friend and mentor. Rest easy brother.
Stewart and Deborah Pike
Our paths crossed all too infrequently old friend. RIP
Roger, my friend and mentor. You have a special place with me for your kindness and understanding. Among a few others, you stepped up and helped me become a better serviceman. Words cannot express the sorrow I feel and that for your family. You will be sorely missed by everyone who knew the man that you are! Thank you for being there! I have always appreciated your patience and protection, no matter the situation. Thank you and be at rest my friend.