Roger Rymhs passed away September 20, 2019 at the age of 75 years.

Roger was born at the family home in Volin, a small community northeast of Rycroft, on September 25, 1943. He was the youngest child of Mary and Demjan Shmyr. Roger first attended Volin School and then was bussed to Rycroft School, from which he graduated in 1961.

After farming and working construction, he chose a career in education. He spent twenty years as a classroom teacher and principal before serving over a decade more in Central Office. Teaching was his passion; he often said “I hope I make a difference to some of these young minds.” Many of his former students will agree that he did so and more.

Roger loved the outdoors. You could find him hunting or fishing at every opportunity. During the winter months, many a hole was drilled in search of “the big one” at Moonshine Lake and other fishing spots. Although often successful, there was also the occasional drought. Roger loved camping, too. For twenty years, he spent the majority of his summer weekends at his Shaw’s Point campsite on Lesser Slave Lake.

Throughout his life, Roger was an avid gardener—twice winning local competitions with some good-sized pumpkins. A variety of small wood-working projects, including numerous rocking horses, were also an important pastime for him. He was renowned for his specialty meats like smoked sausages, pepperoni, backribs, chicken breasts, jerky, and smoked fish. Even cheddar cheese and boiled eggs found their way to Roger’s smoker. To their delight, a large portion of these were shared with family and friends.

The happiest times in his life were with his family, friends, and his precious grandchildren especially. He cherished his time playing games, cards, or simply “horsing around” with his grandchildren.

Roger strongly believed in the value of community to the lives of its citizens. He was an active volunteer with the local Communities in Bloom for the past decade, and he served on the Board of the Peace Adult Learning Society for about the same time.

Roger’s memory will be cherished by his daughters Trisha and Deena (Christopher); grandchildren: Cassidy, Kaitlyn, and Jace; sister Sonya; numerous nieces and nephews; and other dear family members on both sides.

Roger was predeceased by his wife Betty; parents Mary and Demjan Shmyr; sisters Mary, Anne, and Neda; and brothers Uhan and Nick.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, September 28, 2019, at 2:00pm, at Spirit River Centennial Hall (4812 44 Ave.).

Memorial donations in honour of Roger may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.oliversfuneralhome.com

• Date : 2019-09-20
• Location : Spirit River, Alberta

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