Roger Absten

Roger Lane Absten

Feb 8, 1948-Dec 14, 2025

The kindest, most gentle human being, Roger Lane Absten, age 77, passed away on December 14, 2025, after facing cancer with grace and Stoic resilience. He was surrounded by the familiar sounds of family and friends in the beautiful house he designed and hand-built with his beloved wife, Katy, nestled within the magical piece of forest he called home.

Roger was a Vietnam veteran, a chapter of his life that reflected his sense of responsibility, ingenuity and strength.

Roger's positive outlook on life and his quest for knowledge were unending. His personal motto, "Look for the plus every day,"guided the way he moved through the world. His curiosity led him to study everything from the origins of inventions to psychology, horticulture, marine biology, physics, astronomy, and more. He always had a great story to tell, a project in the works, or someone he was lending his talents to-sometimes family and friends, and sometimes perfect strangers. A true Renaissance man, Roger could design, build, fix, and do just about anything.

Roger was known for his contagious smile and quick laugh, a combination that made people feel instantly welcome and at ease. His presence will now, and forevermore, be missed, but his joyful spirit lives on through the many memories and good times we all shared with him - and through the mystical number seven, which brought great meaning and luck to his life.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents John Richard Absten and Bobbie Elizabeth (Robinson) Absten, his beloved wife, Katy Moose-Absten, and his brother, James Lester Absten. He is survived by his brother John Absten Jr.; his sister Betty Sable; his children Harmony Gehlert, Ivy Gardner, and Kyle Absten; and his eight grandchildren: Jade Absten, River Absten-Eudy, Owen Eudy, Evan Eudy, Kasen Absten, Jenna Absten, Swan Gehlert, and Korbin Gehlert.

Rest in paradise, dear Roger. Say aloha to Katy and Rocket-we know they're glad to see you again.

Roger's cremation took place at Haven of Rest Funeral Home in Gig Harbor, WA. There will be a celebration of life held in February, specific date TBD.