Rodger Bymaster

Rodger Bymaster

Rodger Bymaster, 78, died peacefully at home on Sept. 4, 2009 in Bayside, CA. He was born May 2nd, 1931 in Norman, OK to Ivan and Grace Suddith. In high school, Rodger enjoyed many sports and activities and after graduating he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving aboard the U.S.S. Pilot, a minesweeper in the Pacific. After his honorable discharge in July, 1959, Rodger made his way to California and eventually Humboldt County. After working in several different fields over the years, he went to work for Piersons Building Center where he was employed for nearly 20 years before retiring. His friends at Piersons were like a family to him and we all share many happy memories of his years there. In particular was his close friend, Roger Hardaway, who like a true friend, was with him to the end. Fitness was important to Rodger who was always in great shape. In his younger years, he was a weightlifter. He was an avid bicyclist who rode well into his 70’s, once from Eureka to Canada. He earned a black belt in martial arts in his 70’s also. Always interested in trying new things, Rodger sold real estate, learned to fly and was quite a photographer, black and white photos being his favorite. He also volunteered his time and energy at several places over the years including St. Josephs Hospital and one of his favorites the Humboldt County Sheriffs Dept. S.C.O.P. program. He especially enjoyed working on the Sheriffs Dept. boat on Humboldt Bay. He made many friends at the Sheriffs Dept. who will miss him dearly. Rodger also volunteered his time, energy and expertise at his dojo, Jobu Shin Kan, sharing the benefits of his wisdom and experience with younger students. Many thanks go out to the staff at hospice. Their care and compassion made Rodger’s final days comfortable and pain free. Also, to all of you that came by to visit or care for Rodger, called to wish him well, sent cards, flowers and said a prayer for him. Thank you. He had so many good friends because he was a good friend. We will all miss him very much. Rodger leaves behind his daughter, Kerrie, his sister, Patty and several other family members who will also miss him. Rodger did not want a memorial service so at his request his ashes will be scattered in the Pacific Ocean by a few close friends.

Rodger Bymaster, 78, died peacefully at home on Sept. 4, 2009 in Bayside, CA. He was born May 2nd, 1931 in Norman, OK to Ivan and Grace Suddith. In high school, Rodger enjoyed many sports and activities and after graduating he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving aboard the U.S.S. Pilot, a minesweeper in the Pacific. After his honorable discharge in July, 1959, Rodger made his way to California and eventually Humboldt County. After working in several different fields over the years, he went to work for Piersons Building Center where he was employed for nearly 20 years before retiring. His friends at Piersons were like a family to him and we all share many happy memories of his years there. In particular was his close friend, Roger Hardaway, who like a true friend, was with him to the end. Fitness was important to Rodger who was always in great shape. In his younger years, he was a weightlifter. He was an avid bicyclist who rode well into his 70’s, once from Eureka to Canada. He earned a black belt in martial arts in his 70’s also. Always interested in trying new things, Rodger sold real estate, learned to fly and was quite a photographer, black and white photos being his favorite. He also volunteered his time and energy at several places over the years including St. Josephs Hospital and one of his favorites the Humboldt County Sheriffs Dept. S.C.O.P. program. He especially enjoyed working on the Sheriffs Dept. boat on Humboldt Bay. He made many friends at the Sheriffs Dept. who will miss him dearly. Rodger also volunteered his time, energy and expertise at his dojo, Jobu Shin Kan, sharing the benefits of his wisdom and experience with younger students. Many thanks go out to the staff at hospice. Their care and compassion made Rodger’s final days comfortable and pain free. Also, to all of you that came by to visit or care for Rodger, called to wish him well, sent cards, flowers and said a prayer for him. Thank you. He had so many good friends because he was a good friend. We will all miss him very much. Rodger leaves behind his daughter, Kerrie, his sister, Patty and several other family members who will also miss him. Rodger did not want a memorial service so at his request his ashes will be scattered in the Pacific Ocean by a few close friends.