Roger Forsyth Gornichec

Born on March 5, 1949, in Spring Canyon, Utah, Roger was the youngest of four boys. He was a talented basketball player in high school and went on to earn degrees from Dixie College and Southern Utah University.

In 1970, he married Kristine Anderson, with whom he had four children: Isaac, Mandy, Lucas, and Lauren. Roger had a successful 25-year career in banking, including an adventurous move to Pago Pago, American Samoa where he served as President of Amerika Samoa Bank. His family lived in Samoa for over five years creating a formative and memorable childhood for his children and where his youngest, Lauren Faletupe, was born.

In 1999, Roger married the love of his life, Vicky Obtera, and together they built a life filled with love and adventure. Roger was so proud of the families that were forged when he married Vicky and his children were so fortunate to have three new siblings in the mix in addition to a beautiful new bonus mom. Leslie, Jaymie, and Anthony were an incredible blessing and Roger absolutely adored every one of his children and grandchildren. They relocated to the Philippines in 2019, where they rebuilt Vicky’s childhood home. Roger was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, always supporting his family’s endeavors. He had a passion for travel, gardening, hiking, and creating beautiful homes.

Roger is survived by his wife Vicky Gornichec; his children Isaac (Megan) Gornichec, Mandy (Scott) Nelson, Luke (Leah) Gornichec, Lauren (Jake) Casto, Leslie (Rolly) Bayaca, Jaymie (Jimmy) Gomez, Anthony (Cathy) Dizon, twenty-one grandchildren, three great grandchildren, with one on the way, his mother-in-law, Lolita Obtera, and many numerous relatives. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.