Roger Stanley Hoard

Roger Stanley Hoard, of Saint Charles, MO, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at the age of 79. He was the son of the late Stanley and Kathryn Hoard. Cherished husband of Karen Jo (Lockett); devoted father of Traci (Nathan) Shafroth and Jason (Dee) Hoard; loving grandfather to Oliver, Quentin, and Addison; and dear brother of Robert (Nancy) Hoard.

Roger was a graduate of Kansas University, making him an incurable, lifelong Jayhawk. A proud Army veteran, he achieved the rank of First Lieutenant and honorably served in the Vietnam War where he received a Bronze Star and the Air Medal.

Known for his kind and generous spirit, he was deeply loved as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. To his wife Jo (as he called her), he devoutly stood by her side as her rock and loyal other half for 58 years. To his children, Traci, and Jason, he was a wonderful, loving father. His own life an example of sound, practical life principles balanced with patience and kindness. Grandsons Oliver and Quentin were a source of button-busting pride for their “Pop-pop.” And for his only granddaughter, Addison, who’s never lived farther than a stone’s throw, her Papa reserved the very softest spot of his huge heart.

A product of Miltonvale, Kansas, Roger developed a strong work ethic as a farm hand, using his earnings to put himself through college. Never one to do anything halfway, he rose through the ranks as an admired and dependable executive at a global company for 30 years; responsibly managing countless people and projects that would benefit from his leadership. The qualities of being “fair but firm” endeared him to his colleagues, who described him as a wonderful boss.

After retiring, Roger and Karen relished their worldwide travel adventures, especially on cruises. A fixer of all things broken, damaged, faulty, unpainted, or askew, Roger was of the school that things should be “done right.” And was good at making it so. He found joy in boating, old time rock 'n' roll, and woodworking. He was passionate about meticulously maintaining his yard, cruising in his Corvette, playing golf, and rooting for his beloved Dodgers and Jayhawks. He adored his cats, Wilson and Enzo, and doted over his grand dog, Ted. (Who, by the way, never mastered the art of containing his enthusiasm when Papa was around. A direct result of over-spoiling).

Deep respect for his wisdom, good-naturedness, generosity, and, most of all, humility carved a special place in the hearts of his family and ultimately earned Roger the right to be considered the only one of his kind. He is already sorely missed by all who were blessed by knowing him.

Memorials may be made in Roger's name to the Wounded Warrior Project or Humane Society of Missouri.