Roger was a man of exceptional talent, education, and character, and nowhere were his vast knowledge, technical aptitude, and deep romanticism appreciated by more people than in his chosen vocation -- brewing. After years as a hobby brewer and a stint at Wine & the People, Roger turned professional in 1983, brewing and consulting for such companies as Palo Alto Brewing Co., Elmira Fabricators, Emery Pub, Brewers Research and Development Co., and DME Brewing Services.

After learning of Roger's death, Dave Miller wrote the following, "Roger was full of enthusiasm for beer and brewing. He was totally dedicated to the craft brewing movement, and his constant theme was to 'do it right' -- that is, to make the best beer possible. For him, no savings in equipment cost or in the brewmaster's time could be justified if it compromised the quality of the finished product. He was equally dedicated to seeing that his company [DME Brewing Services] did it right -- he was always willing to provide support and ready to see that his clients got whatever help was needed for problems large or small.

"Roger was widely read, and a conversation with him on any subject, in or out of the brewing field, was sure to be lively. I remember his pleasure in quoting from J.R.R. Tolkein -- one of his favorite authors as well as mine. What comes to mind now, thinking about Roger, is not a particular passage he recalled in conversation, but Tolkein's recurring theme that the ephemeral nature of life is what makes it so precious and beautiful.

"I wish our paths had crossed more frequently here on this Middle Earth, before he took his long journey."

There is, in fact, no ending, but only progression from one state to the next. And just as Roger left with assurance of his passage to a new life, so he leaves behind a new chapter for BrewingTechniques. Responsibility for the "Brewing in Styles" column that Roger established and edited passes to Martin Lodahl, who has been writing and guest editing the column for the past several issues. I can think of no one better able to pick up the standard Roger left behind.

Republication of The American Handy Book of the Brewing, Malting and Auxiliary Trades by Wahl-Henius reverts to our office; Roger had planned an edited, annotated version, but we are now planning a "simpler" republication of the book in its original form. Although delayed, the book should be available within the next six months. We hope the finished product will reflect Roger's desire to "do it right."

Roger's contributions will reverberate through our office and BrewingTechniques for years to come. Not only did he contribute materially in writing and editing the styles column and in providing advice and insight upon request, his dedication to the values of the craft, his careful attention to detail, and his generosity of spirit were an inspiration to us all.

Farewell, good soul. You will be missed.

Stephen A. Mallery
Editor