Roger C. Newkirk Jr.

Roger C. Newkirk Jr., 35, went to be with the Lord on December 2, 2021.

 He is survived by his wife, Megan Melady Newkirk; his father, Roger C. Newkirk Sr., and his wife Faye; his paternal Grandparents, Roger and Helen Newkirk; siblings, Jayme Babon, Corey Jones, Katelynn Jones, Zachary Newkirk and Shania Newkirk; step brother, Robbie Coffin; aunts, Tracy Thomas and Tammy Ginn; many nieces, nephews, cousins and lifelong friends.  In 2016, he was preceded in death by his mother, Deborah Stenson.

Roger had four loves, God, family, friends, and being a voice for those who don't have one.  His smile and laughter would flow through the room. He was an awesome man, friend, husband, father figure and advocate.

He focused much of his life on youth; He graduated from Rhinebeck High School, where several teachers recognized his skill as a writer, and then went to graduate from Dutchess Community College, where he proudly made the Dean’s list; he earned degree as a teaching assistant and a degree in childhood education.  He then furthered his education in childhood development at SUNY New Paltz, graduating with honors; and later graduated from Horry College in Myrtle Beach, SC. Prior to moving to Virginia, Roger worked at many restaurants in Rhinebeck, as a second-grade teacher at the Krieger School, and at the Astor Home, Rhinebeck and the Children’s Home, Poughkeepsie.  In Virginia he continued to use his education to serve the community of youth as a Life Skills Coach who provided support, guidance and consistency to young adults in the YouthQuest program and at Intercept Health. He taught people at Teen Challenge, preparing them for their GED exam. Roger left an immeasurable impact that will live on through those he served and worked with.

 Roger was a HUGE sports fan with his favorite teams being the Tarheels, Yankees and the Jets. He had a love for basketball, playing for Rhinebeck and then anytime he could find a game. He later helped coach for the high school.

Roger was also a fan of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, which was his favorite band. Those closest to him knew of his obsession.

Friends may call on Saturday, April 23rd, 1:30-2:00 at the Dapson-Chestney Funeral Home, 51 W. Market St., Rhinebeck.  A celebration of life and remembrance will begin at 2:00 PM.  Interment will follow at Rhinebeck Cemetery.