February 3, 1943 – December 24, 2024

Roger Lee Bumgarner, born on February 3, 1943, in Effingham, IL; raised in Xenia, IL, passed away on December 24, 2024. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Cheryl by merely 20 days. They shared a remarkable 50 years of marriage, which began with a blind date in 1973 and culminated in their wedding in May 1974 in Castle Rock, CO. Roger was a loving and devoted father to Kent, Reid, and Ryan, and the proud grandfather of 10 grandchildren. His family was a source of immense pride and joy.
Roger pursued his academic interests with dedication, beginning with his attendance at Milliken University in Decatur, IL, where he played basketball. He later transferred to Eastern Illinois University to study pre-med. His ambition and hard work led him to be admitted to the University of Illinois Dental School at the Chicago Circle Campus, where he earned his DDS in 1969. He further specialized in orthodontics at Eastman Dental School for two additional years.
In 1973, Roger established his orthodontic practice in Castle Rock, CO, where he became a respected figure in the community. Known for his expertise and gentle care, Roger treated many children in Castle Rock. His dedication to his profession also took him to satellite offices in Burlington, CO, and South Denver.
In addition to being an orthodontist, Roger was a skilled pilot. He frequently flew to Aspen on weekends to visit Cheryl while she was at the Anderson Ranch Art Center in Snowmass, CO. They spent their time together raising their sons, biking, fishing, skiing, playing golf, and relaxing at Lake Powell.
Roger is survived by his sons and their families: Kent and Emily of Carbondale, CO; Reid and Laura of Houston, TX; and Ryan of Eagle, CO. His grandchildren are Jack, Amelia, Lane, Annelise, Julia, Lucy, Levi, Oliver, Ellie and Hudson. He is also survived by his brothers Dave and wife Alice; John and wife Ann of Shallotte, NC and his sister Karen of Crawfordsville, IN. Roger was preceded in death by his parents John and Wanda of Xenia, IL, and his half-sister Bette.
Roger was known for his compassion, dedication, dancing, and sense of humor. Donations can be made to Hospice of the Valley and Abode Hospice instead of sending flowers. A celebration of life will be held at Cielo at Castle Pines, 485 West Happy Canyon Road, Castle Rock, Colorado, on April 13th at 2 p.m., immediately followed by a reception.