Roger Bordeaux Taylor

Roger Bordeaux Taylor, aged 88, of Fresno, CA, passed away on October 5, 2023, in Porto-Cristo, Majorca, Spain. He was born on December 16, 1934, in Walla Walla, WA. He had a nomadic childhood, attending 13 primary elementary schools because of his father's adventurous career with the weather bureau. This transient upbringing fueled his lifelong sense of adventure and curiosity.

He graduated from Walla Walla High School and went on to pursue higher education at the University of Washington, ultimately earning both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree from California State University Fresno. In his career, Roger held positions with the Fresno County Tax Assessors, the Tulare County Planning Department, and the City of Fresno for 24 years. His dedication to preserving history was evident during his 8-year tenure as the Historic Preservation officer with the City of Fresno. After retiring, Roger continued to share his knowledge, teaching at Clovis Adult School and providing consultation services to those seeking to have their buildings listed on the National Historic Preservation Registry.

Roger was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Fresno, where he served as the Historian. He volunteered his time at the Fresno Water Tower, even penning an extensive article for the Journal of the Fresno City and County Historical Society about the history and design of the Fresno Water Tower. His commitment to the community extended to his involvement with organizations like The Arbor Foundation, Tree Fresno, the Fresno County Historical Society, and the Meux Home. He also served as a board member of Heritage Fresno and as the vice chairman of the County Land-Marks Commission.

In 2020, Roger published a book about his grandfather, titled "The Building Legacy of Alexander Taylor in the Pacific Northwest 1899-1944." This achievement was followed by an invitation in 2021 to the Fort Walla Walla Museum for a book signing event.

In 1992, Roger chaired a committee responsible for creating a time capsule filled with historical and local events and people that had an impact on the City of Fresno. On December 19th, 2022, 30 years later, Roger, alongside Mayor Jerry Dyer and the Fresno City Council members, opened the time capsule.

Roger and his wife, Arida, shared a rich and fulfilling life, marked by various gatherings, from wedding receptions to Bible studies. Their adventures included travels to Holland, Arida's birthplace, backpacking trips in nearby mountains, camping with family, and cross-country journeys in their mobile home. They also enjoyed vacations in Hawaii, several cruises, and visited many European countries in addition to visiting Arida's family. Their enduring love story was a source of inspiration, with Roger affectionately known as "Arida's Sweety Pie."

Throughout the years, Roger's family experienced many joyous moments, including trips to Disneyland, watching their children play sports, and Roger's coaching of his daughter's baseball and soccer teams. In later years, he attended his grandchildren's and great-grandchildren's sports events.

Roger and Arida's unwavering faith was evident in their regular attendance at House Church (Bible study) every Monday evening for over 30 years and a monthly couples Bible study, accompanied by the Mariners for over 50 years. Roger was a wellspring of information, generously sharing his knowledge of historical facts and history with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Roger is survived by his loving wife, Arida Taylor, their three children, Daniel, David, and Rosemary, two sisters, Louise and Jeanne (Weed), as well as 13 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Rosamond Taylor.

Roger's legacy is one of dedication to preserving history and a profound love for his community. His artistic talent and passion for heritage have left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing him. A memorial service to celebrate Roger's life will be held on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church located at 1540 M Street, Fresno, CA, 93721, with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Heritage Fresno at 2037 W. Bullard Avenue, PMB 344, Fresno, CA 93711.