Roger Taylor

Roger Lee Taylor, 81, died unexpectedly on July 30, 2024 at his home in Pine Island. He leaves his wife of 57 years, Beverly (Heil) Taylor; his sons, Christopher (Cathy) Taylor Kwilinski of Verona, WI, Lee (Maria) Taylor of Jersey City, NJ, and John (Alison) Taylor of Manitowoc, WI; and eight grandchildren, Israel Kwilinski; Katia, Vera, and William Taylor; Clayton, Andrea, Molly, and Patrick Taylor. Roger was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Cheryll.

Roger was born on April 3, 1943 in Valley City, ND to Eldon and Verna (Bruns) Taylor. He graduated from Valley City High School in 1961 and from the University of Colorado in 1964. He and his wife were married on September 10, 1966 at Christ United Methodist Church in Rochester. Roger's work with IBM began in Rochester in 1964. Roger and Bev lived in San Jose, CA and Atlanta, GA before settling in Pine Island in 1976. He retired in 2000 after working for IBM for almost 36 years. He was a long-time member of Pine Island United Methodist Church.

Roger enjoyed reading, history, philosophy, art museums, and guided tours. He traveled extensively, including visits to all fifty states, all seven continents, and 112 of the 194 UN Member Countries. He was a member of several book discussion groups and a dedicated fan of the Twins, Vikings, Timberwolves, and Lynx. An avid runner for most of his life, he exercised regularly at the Rochester Athletic Club. Roger read multiple newspapers every day and had instant recall of seemingly endless facts.

Holiday celebrations, family picnics, and reunion gatherings were especially important to him. Roger treasured time with his wife, sons, grandchildren, extended family, and friends.

His funeral will be held at Pine Island Methodist Church at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 3, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow the funeral at the Pine Island Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to the library or charity of your choice.