ROGER STARR

Roger lived 92 years with music in his heart, kind words on his lips, and love in his heart for everyone around him.  Whether it was humming and tapping along to some old music or reminding his family how deeply they were cherished, he brought joy wherever he went.  He shared his wisdom and boundless love—not only with his family but with generations of students and athletes.  On October 17, 2025, we said goodbye to him, but the lessons he taught in his home, in the classroom and on the playing fields, will echo for years to come.

Roger was born in 1933 In Winchester, UK.  As part of a two-for-one deal, Roger entered the world alongside his twin, Colin.  As the youngest of 7 children, the pair were known for their quick smiles, clever antics and an uncanny ability to find adventure (and trouble) wherever they went.  Those early years shaped Roger into the kind, good-humoured man he became—happiest when surrounded by family, friends and good conversations.  

Roger grew up at Winchester College, one of England’s oldest public schools (founded in 1382).   Roger’s Dad was a Rifle instructor at the College, and his mum was a valued seamstress who sewed and mended the students’ uniforms.  Though steeped in tradition, Winchester was also a wonderful place for young boys to get into mischief—exploring its ancient cloisters, secret passageways, and sprawling playing fields.  A good many of Rogers Childhood years were during the 2nd world war.  It was During those years, Roger and Colin shared many adventures—and more than a little mischief—with their Cousin Micheal Geiger, who came to live with them because of the dangers in war-time London.  Mike was more like a brother than a cousin to the twins and Dad loved to share his memories of those days.  He loved reminiscing about playing cricket on the meads, exploring the college or about the tree they always climbed, the “Twister”.  It was the unofficial symbol of youthful mischief at the school, and it’s safe to say the boys spent plenty of time among its branches.

In 2011, Roger took a trip to England for a family wedding (which was also a family reunion of sorts) with Robyn, Erin and Karley.  Dad was delighted to share with his daughters and granddaughter the many places at Winchester College that held such special memories from his youth, guiding us through them as if he were reliving his boyhood with every story he told.

In 1955, Roger immigrated to Canada and attended The Tuxedo Normal School (Teachers College).  From there, he began his teaching career in Shoal Lake, Manitoba, where he was fortunate to meet and board with the O’Grady family.  They welcomed him into their home and hearts as one of their own.  The O’Grady’s remained a second family to Roger throughout his entire life.   The O’Grady family was also instrumental in introducing Roger to his future wife, Arlene.   Roger and Arlene were married in August of 1963 and had 3 beautiful children, the youngest of whom was the favourite lol.

After his time in Shoal Lake, Roger moved back to Winnipeg, where he continued his teaching career, at Melrose Junior high (part of Miles Mac Collegiate) and Angus MacKay.  He then moved to John Henderson Junior High in its Inaugural year of 1962, where he stayed until his retirement in 1991

Roger took great pride in his teaching career, particularly his time at John Henderson Junior high.  He was known for his engaging teaching style and genuine care for his students.  He tried to inspire a love of learning, especially in literature.  Although he taught both mathematics and Language Arts, he would always end each class by reading some of his favourite novels, including Goodbye Mr.  Chips (James Hilton), Great Expectations (Charles Dickens) and, of course, some Shakespeare.  It is one of the many qualities his students still recall, even 60 years later.  The numerous comments on Facebook show just how much he was loved and respected, and how deeply his students cherish the memories of those days.

Not only did Roger take pride in expanding his students’ minds, he also was a dedicated coach (both in and out of school). He excelled at coaching volleyball, basketball, track and of course soccer (football if you ask Roger) His absolute 2 prides in coaching, were winning the boy’s 1978 Provincial “B” Championships with the Melrose Midget Major Soccer Team and the many years of coaching his daughter Robyn’s team, leading the team to numerous city and provincial championships.

Aside from being a loving brother, a loyal friend, dedicated teacher and coach who touched countless lives, Rogers most extraordinary roles—and the one’s he cherished most—was that of a parent and granddad.    Erin, Greg and Robyn count themselves among the most privileged—blessed and deeply grateful to have called him “Dad”.   No words can truly capture the depth of his dependability and the unwavering support he gave us as a father.   Imagine three young children snuggled close as he read bedtime stories with such vigour, it felt as if we were living the tale ourselves. We didn’t realize we were making memories, we just knew how he made us feel as he brought each character to life.   The many evenings at the cabin at Wanasing Beach, where he taught us the words to “I’ve got a lovely bunch of coconuts” or “It’s a long way to Tipperary”, while we roasted marshmallows over the fire on the beach, are memories we cherish.  The countless sports games and practices that he either coached, drove us to, or enthusiastically attended, he went to as many as humanly possible—are equally as memorable and deeply appreciated.

Roger would be so proud to know that we, his children, appreciate all that he taught us, whether that be our good table manners (if we displayed bad table manners he would always say “would you do that if Queen was coming for dinner?). our knowledge of old music (Bing Crosby, Glen Miller Band, the Andrew sisters etc) English history, English Literature, Soccer, but most importantly our love of family and friends.

As much as Roger loved being a father, his heart grew even fuller when he became a grandad. His granddaughter Karley brought him immense pride and joy. The bond they shared was truly special, you could see how much he loved her just by expression on his face each time he looked at or talked about her.  One of the most precious moments was the day Karley graduated from university.  He beamed with joy and even made his daughters take him out to find the perfect graduation gift, a pair of diamond earrings.  He put so much thought into it and told us that he “wanted the gift to be perfect”, something I’m sure Karley will cherish forever.   Roger’s legacy lives on in his granddaughter; in her gentle spirit, her patience, her laughter, her empathy and her caring heart (she gets her stunning good looks from her Auntie)

Although Roger immigrated to Canada over 70 years ago seeking opportunities of a better life, he remained a true English gentleman at heart.  In 1992 while on a trip to England (aboard the Dover ferry) with our Mum Arlene, his twin brother Colin and his wife Uli, he penned a poem that spoke of his longing for his homeland.  Roger was proud of his time as a teacher, a mentor, a coach and a father, but also proud of the country where he was born, the country he loved.

 It is fitting to end this tribute with his own words.  

The green sea water sluiced against the forging prow

As the ferry forced its way

Towards the brooding cliffs of Dover

White but streaked with gray,

Guardian ramparts of the sequestered isle.

Oh! To be again in England at any time of year;

To soar above the spreading trees, the damp green fields,

The enclosing hedgerows, and the lonely moors;

To see again the lazy cattle, squatting on the ground,

Or standing under trees, rolling their eternal chew in slobbering mouths,

Their big heads turned in stolid gaze;

To feel again the October breeze that sweeps the drying leaves before;

To shiver in March winds, and shelter from the April rains;

To enjoy the warming sun, shining on golden daffodils in early summer glades;

To see again the curving hills, dotted with sheep,

Heads down, slowly traversing the green soft turf;

Or to walk again the narrow lanes leading to cottages o’ergrown with vines.

And in an English church

Omniscient eye that surveys the village green,

The white – clothed vicar,

In strident voice, calls down

Upon his attendant flock;

Here can we see the spirit of the English soul.

A celebration of life will be held in the future and we hope the many whose lives were enriched by Roger will join us to honour and remember him.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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