Roger Jerome Clayton

Roger Jerome Clayton

January 29, 1943 – September 13, 2025

Roger Clayton, age 82, of Golden, Colorado, passed away peacefully at home on the morning of September 13, 2025, with his wife Irene and daughter Jennifer by his side.

Roger was born on January 29, 1943, in Knoxville, Tennessee, to Austin and Elva Clayton. He grew up in Colville, Washington, where he enjoyed basketball, family gatherings, and many cherished visits to family cabin on Blue Creek Ranch established by Roger's grandfather near the Idaho–Montana border.

He attended the University of Idaho from 1961–1965, earning a bachelor's degree in psychology. In 1966, Roger was drafted into the U.S. Army and served as a sergeant and military police officer at Fort Lewis, Washington. He was grateful his service kept him stateside during those turbulent years.

After the Army, Roger eventually moved to Colorado, where he worked for the U.S. Forest Service before beginning a long career in facilities and maintenance at Windsor Gardens, a large retirement community in Denver. He dedicated more than 35 years to his career before retiring in 2009.

It was in Denver that Roger met the love of his life, Irene, through a mutual friend. They married in September 1979 and were blessed with two children, Jennifer in 1980 and Gerard in 1982. Roger was a devoted father, always present, playful, and supportive. From driveway basketball games to helping with homework, Roger gave his children love and stability in countless ways. Calm and humble by nature, there seemed to be no problem he couldn't handle. He was the family's go-to fixer of everything from plumbing and roadside assistance to helping with homework, fixing broken glasses, and always willing to provide a reassuring hug.

Roger loved laughter, family traditions, road trips, and life's simple joys. He enjoyed The Simpsons, and had a knack for lighthearted humor. After retiring, he embraced his role as "Grandpa," helping care for his three grandchildren, Joaquin, Averi, and Austin.

In 2022, Roger was able to take a special roadtrip to Sandpoint, Idaho, with his son. All four Clayton siblings-Alan, Roger, Audrey, and Paula-were together and able to share memories and stories. He also visited the Blue Creek Ranch, and recalled his parents taking him and his siblings to the cabin his grandpa built for sleepovers when he was a young boy.

In his final years, Roger faced health challenges with courage and dignity. Surrounded by family, he spent his last weeks and days sharing love, laughter, and heartfelt hugs.

Roger is survived by his wife of 45 years, Irene; his daughter Jennifer; his son Gerard; and his grandchildren, Joaquin, Averi, and Austin. He is also survived by his brother Alan and sisters Audrey and Paula. He was preceded in death by his parents, Austin and Elva.

Roger's ashes will be laid to rest at the City of Golden Cemetery. Memorial services will be arranged by family at a future date. His family will remember him always as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend-a man whose warmth, humor, and devotion will live on in all who knew him.