Roger Charles Neal, 92, of Milwaukie OR passed away on October 28th, 2025 exactly how he wished, surrounded by loved ones. He leaves behind a legacy of quiet intelligence, steady patience, and a life lived with purpose and heart.

A celebration of Roger's life will be held at the American Legion Post 180, in Milwaukie, OR on Saturday, January 17th, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.  

Roger was born on August 20th, 1933 in Woodbury, New Jersey to George and Frances Neal. At the age of 15 Roger's family moved to Umatilla, Oregon for his father's new job at the McNary Dam. He graduated Umatilla High School - top of his class, then went to Oregon State College in Corvallis for two years, majoring in Physics and General Science. Drafted into the U.S. army in April 1953 (Korean war) Roger developed an interest in communications and became a Radio operator. After two years in the army, he moved to Portland, met & married Betty Ann (Williams), and in 1958 started a family. First daughter Laurie, then two years later, twins, Linda & Lance. Washing windows by day, he continued his education (in television and electronics technology engineering). Roger spent most of his career working for two local news stations KGW-TV and KOIN-TV. He worked in engineering and studio production, in audio, in lighting, as a camera operator, floor director and producer/director. As an avid Trail Blazer fan, he even freelanced as an audio operator during their 1988-89 season.  

Personally, Roger experienced profound losses with the premature passing of his wife, Betty, and several years later his son Lance, yet he continued forward with quiet strength. He married Phyllis in 1973, adopting her daughter, Lisa, and expanding his family with devotion and pride. Roger & Phyllis later divorced.  

Roger had many other interests during his lifetime, including photography, art (drawing), motorcycles, barbershop singing, archery, bowling, volleyball, horseshoes, golf, and tinkering in the garage. He was an impressive pool player, and with remarkable skill & focus, an accomplished dart player as well, winning countless matches. And for about three years, he owned a tavern (The Black Bull). He also had a passion for collectibles, and he displayed them proudly. He had a huge Coca-Cola collection, Joe Camel memorabilia, and his beloved Moon & Stars glassware. His home was as much a museum of Americana as it was a reflection of the stories he cherished.  

Of all his interests, however, he had a lifelong passion for chess, finding joy in the challenge and strategy of the game. He has gifted grandchildren and great-grandchildren chess boards, wanting to pass down, not just a game, but a way of thinking, observing, and understanding patience & forethought. During his final summer on hospice, he taught his granddaughter Ashlee how to play.  

It brought him immense joy to share that part of himself with her. Now her own daughters proudly play on their own chess boards, carrying his legacy forward in a beautiful way.  

After retiring, he embraced this new chapter to nurture the next generations through teaching, supporting, and encouraging. With his steady presence and thoughtful guidance, he molded one particular young mind and they became inseparable. His family was the most important thing to him, but his connection with his granddaughter, Ashlee, was truly profound.  

In his final months, he was lovingly cared for by his eldest daughter, Laurie, her husband Burrell, and Ashlee. Their compassion ensured his final chapter was surrounded by love, dignity, and togetherness, honoring his final wishes.  

He leaves behind a legacy of love that cannot be measured, and he will be deeply missed, but the imprint of his patience, kindness, wisdom, and unwavering dedication will continue to guide those who loved him.   Roger leaves behind his daughters Laurie (Burrell) Palmer, Linda Neal, Lisa Neal; four grandchildren, and three great-granddaughters who brought him great joy; his sister, Elaine Martin; nieces and nephews.  

A celebration of Roger's life will be held at the American Legion Post 180, in Milwaukie, OR on Saturday, January 17th, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.