Roger Elder

Roger Lee Elder was born on March 22, 1939, and passed away peacefully on December 8, 2025, at the age of 86. He was the fourth of six boys born to Chester and Averill Elder and grew up in Chehalis, Washington, where he attended Chehalis schools.

In 1956, Roger proudly enlisted in the United States Navy. During his service, he was assigned to several ships, including the USS Falgout (DER-324), the USS Lowe (DER-

325), and the USS Floyd B. Parks (DD-884). In October 1961, his ship became part of the Pacific Fleet response force that traveled through the Panama Canal during the Cuban Missile Crisis, docking at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Roger later transferred to Assault Craft Squadron One, where he completed three tours of duty in Vietnam from 1965 to

1968. There, he operated LCUs as part of the well-known "Junk Fleet." After his honorable discharge from the Navy in 1969, Roger continued his dedication to service by joining the Army Reserves. He served with the 104th Infantry Division at Fort Lewis, completing a remarkable 30 years of military service and retiring as an E-8 Master Sergeant.

Following his discharge from the Navy, Roger moved his family from California back to Centralia, Washington. He briefly explored barbering at the encouragement of his best friend, Jerry Pier, but soon found his true calling in carpentry, following in the footsteps of his father-in-law. Roger worked at West Coast Mills in Chehalis, where he earned his Journeyman's License, and later worked out of the Carpenters Hall in Centralia. His skilled craftsmanship contributed to several major projects in the area, including the construction of Capital Mall in Olympia. He later retired from a civilian maintenance position at Madigan Hospital.

On November 28, 1958, Roger married the love of his life, Cleona Bishop. Together, they raised five children and shared 67 years of marriage. Roger was a remarkably talented man who could fix nearly anything. He had a deep passion for classic cars and owned and restored several throughout his life ensuring each of his children had one when they turned 16. When recently asked which car was his favorite, he proudly replied, "My '57." An exceptional auto detailer, Roger won numerous awards at car shows and auctions.

Roger was known for his strong work ethic and his attention to detail. He took great pride in keeping everything immaculate, from his home and weed-free yard to his beautiful koi pond. A lifelong sports enthusiast and accomplished athlete himself, Roger coached his children in their sporting activities and later became a devoted spectator at his grandchildren's games and events. Above all, he was deeply proud of his family.

In his later years, Roger volunteered at the Veterans Memorial Museum in Chehalis, where he also served as a board member until 2025. He was well known there for making coffee, sharing stories, and enjoying camaraderie with fellow veterans.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Dick, Bud, Al, and Bob; and his oldest son, Brian Elder, whom he lost in 2018.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Cleona Elder of Centralia; his brother, Lonnie Elder; his daughters, Rogette (Ralph) Hubbert and Brenda (Tony Cheevers) Nachatilo; and his sons, David Elder and Jeffrey (Angie) Elder. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren-Amanda, Brandy, Jonathan, Kirstie, Nathan, Karissa, Keeton, Aeryn, Emma, and lan and five great-grandchildren: Braxton, Leo, Kinsley, Hudson, and Brooks.

A private family burial will be held at Claquato Cemetery with full military honors.