Roger Wayne Thorell

Roger Wayne Thorell, lovingly known as “Rog,” passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025, at the age of 73 after a short but valiant fight with Cancer. Born in Milford, Utah, on June 11, 1951, to LaVerne Brown and Willard Linus Thorell, Roger was a spirited soul who lived life on his own terms—with humor, heart, and a whole lot of adventure.

He graduated from Highland High School, Class of 1970. Roger’s career took him down many roads—literally and figuratively. He worked as a skilled butcher, then shifted to furniture and car sales, and eventually became a long-haul truck driver before retiring. No matter the job, Roger brought charisma, grit, and that trademark sense of humor that could light up any room. A true original, Roger had a nickname for everyone, each punny and perfectly tailored. His wit was unmatched, his presence unforgettable, and his love for his family immeasurable.

Roger shared a child with Cheryl Knickerbocker, and in 1976 he married Jennifer Gardner. Together, they had 2 children and shared a decade of memories before parting ways in 1986. In 2004, Roger married Cathy Ann Jorgensen, gaining not only a partner in life but a blended family that meant the world to him.

Roger made his home in Centerfield, Utah, where he enjoyed the slower pace of life and cultivated his many passions. With a natural green thumb, he could coax life from the soil like few others. He found joy in fishing trips, cracking jokes, casual rounds of golf, and the occasional trip to test his luck at the slots. Known for his legendary beef jerky and signature homemade pepper seasoning—affectionately dubbed “Filet Minaynis”—Roger had a knack for turning the simple things into something special.

Roger is survived by his loving wife Cathy and children: J.D., Matthew “Gizmo” (Jylaire), and Melissa “One Yeah” Williams (Wade); and his beloved stepdaughters Marci Gayler (Matt) and Amber-Ella Curtis. He was the proud grandfather of Averie, London, Keaton, Beckett, Piper, Brayden (Hope), Tucker (Morgan), Janessa (Bodie), Keaton, Kayson, and Keston, and great granddaughter Georgia—each of whom brought him immense pride and joy. Preceded in death by his Mom & Dad, infant brother, ex-wife Sally, and 2 loving mother-in-laws, Dorothy & Earlene (“Er”)

Roger’s legacy lives on through the stories, laughter, and memories he gifted to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A celebration of life will be held June 8 at 150 S Main St Centerfield, UT from 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Roger by sharing a dad joke, planting something green, or spending time doing what makes your soul smile.

Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti. Online guestbook www.maglebymortuary.com