Roger Alexander McKay

Roger Alexander McKay, 54, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2025, surrounded by those who loved him most.

Roger was born on October 7, 1971, and raised in Santa Barbara, California. In his early twenties, he moved to Mesa, Arizona to be closer to his mother and other beloved family members, where he built a life rooted in hard work, friendships, and family.

On February 22, 2007, Roger married Shahna Wohlert. Together they welcomed two sons, Ryder (18) and Tyler (14), who were the pride and joy of his life. Though their marriage later dissolved, Roger and Shahna remained close friends and dedicated co-parents, united by their love for their children and mutual respect.

Roger was a skilled plumber who turned his expertise into a successful business, Rocket Rooter. He took great pride in his work and was known for his problem-solving skills, craftsmanship, and willingness to help others. In his earlier years, Roger built custom motorcycles, and he often dreamed of owning a Harley-Davidson someday. More recently, he discovered a new passion for semi trucks and spent countless days and nights fixing up his beloved Peterbilt, dreaming of becoming a heavy equipment hauler.

Above all else, Roger cherished his role as a father. He shared his love of music with his son Tyler, keeping electric guitars and drums at his home so he could encourage Tyler's passion. They recently enjoyed Tyler's first concert side by side, a memory that will forever be treasured. Roger also shared a special bond with his son Ryder through humor and laughter, regularly exchanging memes that reflected their mutual thought process and understanding of each other.

Roger loved to play pool, talk for hours with friends and family, and dive deep into spirited discussions about conspiracy theories-conversations filled with curiosity, laughter, and his unmistakable passion for questioning the world around him.

He is preceded in death by his mother Esther McKay; his grandmother Lillian Ortega; his brother, Steve McKay; and multiple other cherished family members.

Roger's ashes will be spread by close family members in Santa Barbara, California, where his mother has her final resting place and where his lifelong love for the ocean began, and also in Oregon, a place where he had hoped to visit the king tide and someday retire.

Roger will be remembered for the dreamer that he was, his generous heart, his quick wit which was passed down from his mother, his determination to make others laugh, and his devotion to his sons. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him.Your spirit will forever be a part of us. Rest in peace, Lil-O-Watts