Roger Wayne Nelson, 82, died on August 25, 2021. He is survived by wife Marian Nelson, brother Terry Nelson, children Janet (John) Friauf, Scott (Susan) Nelson, and Eric (Jennifer) Sloan, and grandchildren Jamison, Shawn, and Kayla.

Roger graduated from the University of Rochester and Duke University (PhD Chemistry). He served in the U.S. Navy during the Cuban missile crisis and taught chemistry at the Naval Academy in Annapolis.

After a career in chemistry at Eastman Kodak Company, Roger enjoyed biking, singing in the Eastman Rochester Chorus, and volunteering at WXXI (Reachout Radio). He was a lover of ice cream, trains, classical music, sailing, chess, and chocolate. His nature was sweet and gentle. He will be greatly missed.

If you would like to honor Roger with a charitable contribution, we would ask that you make it to WXXI.

A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.


Comments

13 responses to “Nelson, Roger Wayne”

  1. Jim Schoeneman Avatar
    Jim Schoeneman

    I am saddened to hear of Roger’s passing. I worked closely with Roger and his team in the inception of Kodak’s Medical Products. Roger was certainly a “Chemical and Analytical Wizard” and all around good person. It is my hope that your memories of Roger sustain you through this difficult time. May he Rest in Peace.

  2. Kathy Reed Avatar
    Kathy Reed

    I am so saddened to learn of Roger’s passing. Such a kind man. I enjoyed chatting with him in the WXXI lunchroom about any manner of things. Sending strength to Marian and their families.

  3. Barry Buffan Avatar
    Barry Buffan

    I first met Roger when he was the leader of the Perinton bike group & always concerned about our safety & would plan rides accordingly. He was ahead of his time when he bought parts & created an E-bike years before they became more popular. He had that great voice that provided the local news on WXXI to the visually impaired. He is an inspiration to many!

    Thank you Roger ?

  4. Jacqueline Schucker Avatar
    Jacqueline Schucker

    I feel very fortunate to have known Roger during the times he organized and led the Perinton biking groups. He was a kind and gentle man and I always felt secure and confident he would keep the bikers safe. My sympathies and condolences to his family.

  5. Dick Moore Avatar
    Dick Moore

    A Renaissance man and a true friend. I miss Roger already, due to my own conditions, but I have many fond memories of biking, singing, exploring history, and just talking. Roger will be greatly missed. I extend my condolences to Marian and their family.

  6. LaDonna Court Avatar
    LaDonna Court

    Marian, I am so very sorry to see this. I know last time we talked at the Zoo you let me know Roger was not doing well. But I truly enjoyed seeing you and Jerry bringing him to visit and he was always very kind. My deepest sympathy to all.

  7. Barbara Lobb Avatar
    Barbara Lobb

    I am so sorry to hear of Roger’s passing. We were acquainted at WXXI Reachout, and I could always count on a cheery word from Roger..

  8. Leslie Arduser-Brogan Avatar
    Leslie Arduser-Brogan

    I met Roger as a fellow WXXI Reachout volunteer. He always had a smile and was such a kind man. My sincere sympathies to his family – what a loss. ?

  9. Terri Rogers Avatar
    Terri Rogers

    I was so sorry to hear of Roger’s passing. For years, he read the newspaper section right before mine at WXXI Reachout Radio. He always had a smile and a kind word. I always appreciated his positivity. My deepest sympathy to his family.

  10. Joanne Kelsey Avatar
    Joanne Kelsey

    Dear Marian: Kel & Roger shared many adventures. Both of them loved biking.& ice cream. Roger was a very kind soul & easy to be around. He once rescued me when I lost my
    car keys in Country Club Plaza.. You & your family are in my thoughts & prayers.

  11. Karen Hibbard Avatar
    Karen Hibbard

    I met Roger while volunteering for WXXI in the Reachout Radio program. He “read” before and after me (taking two shifts) and was so very kind and supportive of me when I was going through my “newbie” phase. He always had a kind smile and gentle laugh. A true gentleman. My condolences to his family. Karen Hibbard

  12. Jennifer Spaker Avatar
    Jennifer Spaker

    I’m a nurse and helped a man on my 8/25 flight from Charlotte to Rochester. If it’s him, let me know. Thank you.

  13. Ruth Sheldon Avatar
    Ruth Sheldon

    Roger will be missed by friends and family. He was a real great guy and a gentleman and a scholar. Bless you all in the coming years.