Roger Smith, Class of 1968, passed away on February 18, 2018 surrounded by his family. His death was due to complications caused by congestive heart failure and liver failure. For many of us, he will be dearly missed.Roger left his mark on Oregon sports history. In the spring of 1968, while representing Cleveland High School, he broke the Oregon state meet record in the shot put and discus. That achievement earned him the Oregon A-1 athlete of the year award. Another nominee that year was a distance runner by the name of Steve Prefontaine.
Roger was not only a state champion but, for a time, he was the all time best in his events. His accomplishments in track and football earned him a spot in the Cleveland High School Hall of Fame and, subsequently, in the Portland Interscholastic League (PIL) Athletic Hall of Fame.
He and his wife, Vicki, married in 1968 and recently celebrated 50 years together.
Roger went on to play football for Dee Andros at Oregon State from 1969 to 1972 where he excelled. He was one in a long line of outstanding fullbacks to play at OSU. In 1973, he left OSU with a Bachelor's degree and spent a good part of his career working for Fred Meyer.
Roger was a wonderful spouse, parent and grandparent. He gave back to the community as well as a track coach at numerous schools including Cleveland, Wilson, Madison and Milwaukie High Schools.
Roger is gone-but will not be forgotten..
