Roger Dale Wiste, 67

On Tuesday, December 19, 2023, Roger Dale Wiste bid farewell to the place he deemed as close to Heaven as possible, peacefully passing away at the age of 67 at Central Peninsula Hospital in Soldotna, Alaska. He left behind a legacy of adventure, camaraderie and unbridled passion.

Born on September 25, 1956, in Austin, Minnesota, Roger was the eldest child born to Dale and Joan Wiste. A proud graduate of Austin High School, class of 1975, he embarked on a journey that took him from military service in the Army (1975-1978) to pursuing his education in DNR Management in Wisconsin. However, it was the call of the Last Frontier that echoed in his heart, and in the year 1993, Roger fulfilled his lifelong dream of making Alaska his home.

Roger’s spirit seemed to belong to a bygone era, a sentiment echoed in his love for wandering peaceful woods, gathering mushrooms, trapping, hunting, and the satisfaction of processing furs and fish. His winters were spent navigating the snow-covered landscapes on his snowmachine and his eyes lit up when he found his wanted game in his trap line.

In his 30 years in Alaska, Roger forged deep and enduring friendships that stood the test of time, offering unwavering support during his toughest moments. His love for animals, especially his cherished dogs, was evident in the special place they held in his heart. Roger’s skillful training and genuine affection for his canine companions turned them into an extension of his family.

For his Minnesota relatives, the anticipation of large boxes filled with the bounty of Alaskan waters – salmon and halibut – was a delight. His home-made special berry jams and squaw candy were an annual treat thoroughly enjoyed by family in the lower 48.

When family visited him in Alaska, Roger ensured they experienced the adventure of a lifetime. From fishing in the deep sea and touring special places only the locals knew, to the thrill of dog sledding under the mesmerizing northern lights.

Despite spending the last three decades surrounded by the majestic mountains of Alaska, Roger’s loyalty to his roots remained unshaken. A die-hard Minnesota Vikings fan, he weathered the team’s tumultuous ups and downs with pride, always proclaiming to “bleed purple.”

Roger’s dream was to live and breathe the crisp Alaskan air until his last breath, and we are grateful he had the chance to see that dream fulfilled.

Though our hearts ache at his premature departure, we find solace in the knowledge that Roger worked tirelessly to turn his dreams into reality.

Roger is survived by his mom and stepfather , Joan and Wayne Skov; stepmother, Bonnie Wiste; sisters and brother-in-laws, Renae (Dayle) Goskesen, Rhonda (John) DeVries; sister-in-law, Lilly Wiste; nieces, Megan (John) Rodriquez, Lyndsey (Jason) Johnson, Elizabeth (Kendall) Christensen, Morgan (Josh) Finne, Leah Ferch; and nephew, Logan Goskesen; stepsisters and spouses, several great nieces and nephews, friends and his Alaskan family of friends.

Roger is now resting in eternal peace, joining his dad, Dale, his brother – Raymond, both maternal and paternal grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Memorial service pending.