Roger Velasco Ames

Roger "Badger" Velasco Ames, a beloved husband, father, sibling, uncle and friend, passed away tragically on September 30, 2023, in Los Angeles, California. He was born on September 1, 1964, in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, Philippines. Roger will be deeply missed by all who knew him and leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness.

Roger dedicated his career to making a difference in the world. For almost three years, he served as a Senior Accountant Affiliate at AIDS Healthcare Foundation. His work exemplified his commitment to helping others and contributing to a cause greater than himself.

Beyond his professional achievements, Roger's true passion lay in cherishing his family. He was known for always caring for them with unwavering dedication. In the kitchen, he transformed into a culinary artist who delighted in cooking Filipino delicacies like Sinigang, Dinuguan and Papaitan. The holidays held a special place in his heart, as they provided the opportunity to create joyful memories with his siblings and extended family in San Diego.

But it wasn't just his exceptional cooking skills that endeared Roger to those around him. His larger-than-life personality lit up every room he entered. With an infectious sense of humor and laughter that could brighten even the gloomiest day, Roger had an uncanny ability to make people laugh from their core.

In the office, Roger greeted everyone with the same warmth and kindness that he showed his loved ones. He believed in creating an inclusive environment where everyone felt valued and acknowledged. His genuine care for others made him loved and respected by colleagues near and far.

When he wasn't brightening people's lives with laughter or touching their hearts with his compassion, Roger indulged in his favorite hobbies and interests. A passionate golfer, he relished participating in tournaments alongside his friends or simply enjoying a casual round for fun. Celebrating life was important to him, evident through his lively presence at parties where he radiated joy and infectious energy.

Roger was also devoted to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. He pushed himself physically, running an impressive five miles at the gym every day. Additionally, as a sports enthusiast, he avidly followed basketball and football, supporting whichever team happened to be victorious. However, his loyalty to the Los Angeles Lakers always remained constant.

On the fateful day of his passing, Roger suffered a heart attack while diligently carrying out his duties at work. The suddenness of his departure has left a void in the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing this remarkable individual.

Roger will forever be remembered for his vibrant spirit, his zest for life, and his ability to make others feel seen and appreciated. His absence will be deeply felt by his surviving family members: Kiana Ames (daughter) and Carmencita Ames (wife). He is reunited with his loving mother Natividad, father Juliano, brother Jun, and sister Winnie in Heaven. Their grief is shared by an extensive network of friends whose lives he touched throughout his journey.

A memorial service to celebrate Roger's life will be held on October 24, 2023, starting at 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM at Forest Lawn - Covina Hills - Church of our Heritage located at 21300 Via Verde Drive in Covina, California. Another service will follow on October 25th at 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the same location. We're asking everyone to dress in white and if you have a pair of colorful or your favorite pair of sneakers, please wear those to honor his love of collecting Nike sneakers.

As we bid farewell to Roger Ames, let us remember him for the love he embodied and the immense joy he brought into our lives. May his soul find eternal peace as we continue to honor and cherish his memory.