Roger Louis Semple

Roger was born in 1936 and raised in Wisconsin by Lyle and Carol Semple. He was one of six children, his brothers Jim, Bob, Arnold, Gene, and his sister Betty. At age 16, Roger enlisted in the Navy where he served on the USS Magoffin and the USS Eldorado during the Korean War. After the treaty was signed with Korea, he was re-assigned as an instructor at the Naval Post Graduate School in Monterey. His time in the Navy as a Radio Electronics Technician launched his interest into engineering for which he attended DeVry University for his Aeronautical engineering training. Once he graduated, Roger went to work for Lockheed in Sunnyvale CA, and he went on to get his Engineering Degree. While at Lockheed, he designed satellites that are still in orbit today. He married his first wife Marlene and they had two daughters; Kelly and Sheila. He lost his oldest daughter Kelly in a tragic accident. He married his current wife Shirley of 47 years who had four children: Allen, Richard, Nancy and Tonda. With his newly blended family he enjoyed sharing hobbies and spending time with the children through activities such as hiking, camping, gardening, fishing and classic cars. Roger always loved family time, especially in the "old blue bus" RV. When grandchildren came along his heart became even fuller. He has five grandchildren: Kasey, Tyler, Kaylie, Adam and Jim, and one great grandchild, Macy, to spoil. After retiring, Roger moved to Roseville. Here is where he became involved in the community as a volunteer and a Senior Commissioner for the City of Roseville where he lobbied for Seniors. He loved teaching beginning computer skills to seniors. His class became so popular that it had to be relocated to a larger facility. Roger loved to read and absorbed knowledge which he would passionately share with those around him. He became President of the Roseville Genealogy Club, then he also joined the speech club, Toastmasters, to improve his speaking skills and further serve in to the community. Roger enjoyed spending his free time reading, playing Sudoko, working on crossword puzzles, challenging opponents to Chess and Acey Duecy, swimming in the summer, playing with technology, and above all, he loved food! When he saw good food, his eyes would light up! His passion for people and connecting with them was apparent in his open-door policy, as he would welcome everyone into his home. The first thing he would ask for was a big hug. Roger adored life and was full of enthusiasm. We will always remember him for his infectious smile and ability to brighten up a room through his lively laugh.