Roger Harlan FRYE

1942 - 2024

Born to Harlan and Lorraine Frye on July 20, 1942. Because he was a sentimental guy who honored and adored his parents, Roger still owned the home his parents brought him to when he was born. He has been a lifelong Spokane resident.

Roger was the 1st Chair trumpet of Roger's High School orchestra and band. He later played in bands around Spokane. Joining the Navy, he was on the aircraft carrier USS Hancock, then, stationed in Kodiak, Alaska. His television career began in Kodiak when he became a broadcaster on the Navy Base's first ever radio station.

Roger proceeded to Radio Television Broadcast College in LA and later earned two bachelor's degrees at Eastern University. With his training in television production, he joined KREM when TV was a brand-new industry. His creativity as a producer and director won him many awards. More meaningful to Roger was the support and mentoring he was able to share with so many "newbies" at KREM. We hear their appreciation of him to this day. This year is the 50th anniversary of the summer he spent everyday filming Expo 74 for KREM.

Roger was loved for his values and powerful work ethic. Family always came first, as well as taking care of neighbors and people in need, mentoring and supporting his children, their friends, his co-workers, he even advised the staff at his favorite businesses. He was a wise, intelligent, solid man. People saw that and welcomed his ideas.

He raised and shared his values and ethics with ever expanding generations. Along with Brenda Frye, he raised, loved, and taught; John Frye (Barbara Frye), Heidi Frye Best (Shannon Best), Jared Frye, and later with Kathy Swehla, his partner of 24 years; Skylar Swehla (Marianne Kitchens). Those values have clearly been passed on to eight grandchildren and now ten great-grandchildren.

Roger's second career was as a GM for Silver Collector Car Auctions. His love of classic cars started at the age of 2 and never slowed. He bought and sold over 500 cars. He still has a small herd. Known as "The Lincoln Man" he enjoyed the auction business, all the friends he made, and the travel involved. He loved driving and traveled as much as he could. With Kathy he went to New Orleans, Maine, Orlando, and had long road trips through the west, southwest and all the way to the Gulf Coast. A big fan of the Zags, the Cougs, and the Hawks, Roger did not have other hobbies as he devoted his time to family and work. That is where he excelled.

Roger passed peacefully with loved ones nearby. He leaves behind family and many friends and his beloved "car dog" Holly.

Drive Fast Take Chances!

A Celebration of Roger's Life to be held at Spokane Cremation and Funeral Service, Friday, March 15th, at 2 pm. Please consider a donation to Union Gospel Mission.