Roger Van Pelt, son of Roger Beekman Van Pelt and Marie Bennett Van Pelt passed away on February 8, 2019 in Orange, California. This was close to the homes of his children, Amy Van Pelt Satras and Paul Satras, grandchildren, Megan and Vincent, and son, Ward Garrett Van Pelt. His wife, Shirley Buccola Van Pelt predeceased Roger. His sister, Marie Van Pelt Clark '55 is living with her husband, Charles, in the family home in South Pasadena.

Roger was raised in South Pasadena. He attended Marengo School for his elementary years, South Pasadena Junior High School where he was awarded the American Legion Award upon graduation, and South Pasadena-San Marino High School in the class of 1950. Roger was a Bengal, lettered in three varsity sports which were football, basketball, and track. He was chosen to represent the high school to Boys' State in Sacramento. After graduation in 1950, Roger attended the United States Naval Academy, served in the US Navy and graduated from the University of California at Santa Barbara.

Roger loved coaching. He was extremely happy being around children of all ages. He especially liked watching his own children participate in sports and then watching his grandchildren. He was an avid sports enthusiast often visiting Santa Anita and Del Mar race tracks.

He began teaching adults English while living on Balboa Island. He married his next-door neighbor, Shirley Buccola. The two while enjoying each other's company, would sit on their front porch and would greet their many friends and the people that would pass by. He loved gardening and tended to more than 15 homes on the island. His clients referred to him as 'Coach' and you could identify which gardens were Roger's as his flowers added so much beauty to his homes especially his dahlias.

Roger became involved with officiating track for USC and UCLA and many hours were spent involving the Special Olympics which was very special to him. He met many people who loved and admired him in the track world. He will be missed with his smiling face and fun personality.

Marie Van Pelt Clark '55, Roger's sister