Roger Frederick Newkirk was born on May 7, 1942 in Chicago, Illinois, at Lewis Memorial Hospital. He passed away on July 8, 2026 in Battle Creek, Michigan.

He was preceded in death by his father, mother, and brother, as well as his stepsons, Virgil Peña Soto and Abelardo Peña Soto. He is survived by his loving wife, Antonia Maria Peña-Newkirk and her children, Paul Peña; David Peña-Newkirk; Yolanda (Gary) Ford; Sylvia (Mark) Bogema; and Mario (Meredith) Peña. He also leaves behind many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Although Roger had no biological children of his own, he was a loving father figure to those who had the opportunity to spend time with him and truly get to know him. He always asked how you were doing because he genuinely cared. Roger was a kind, loving, and understanding man. He was not only our elder but also our rock and our best friend. He came into our family when we needed him most.

Roger’s father served in the U.S. Army and was killed in action during the Battle of Normandy in France. Roger followed in his father’s footsteps by serving honorably in the United States Army as a Sergeant during the Vietnam War. He received the Purple Heart and several other military decorations for his service. When we asked him about his military experiences, he spoke openly. He never took the realities of war lightly. Roger was a staunch believer in the U.S. Constitution. He spent many hours watching the news, and discussions about current events were always part of our visits together.

Roger earned a degree in music from WMU. He was exceptionally talented and intelligent. He played bass and electric guitar and sang in many bands throughout the years. During the 1970s and 1980s, he performed with the Battle Creek Jazz Ensemble. He also played in backup bands for Tom Jones, Al Green, and other well-known artists. At family gatherings, “Rog” or “Poppie” would sit with his wife, Mario, and Gary, playing music and singing funny songs that always made us laugh. He will also be remembered standing with a golf club in hand, always ready with his signature golf stance.

Our family would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the caregivers and staff who cared for Roger during his illness, especially Bronson in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and Select Specialty Hospital at Bronson Battle Creek. We are deeply grateful for the compassionate care, respect, and kindness shown to him and to our family during this difficult time.

Roger will always be loved beyond words and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.