He always had a thing for trains... He would always want to take the trains to and from work, and he always wanted to travel in the first car. What he liked about the first car is that when the train dropped him off at the Simi Valley station, he would be able to wave at the conductor. That was his number one thing to do: wave at the conductor.
— Chris Spacey, son, 30
Spacey, a native of England, had lived in the United States for more than 30 years. On the Friday of the crash, he took an earlier train home because work at the printing plant was a little slow. As was his custom, Spacey sat in the first car.
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104 memories of Roger

Rodger had a tender heart for people and pets. He had great life stories that he loved to tell and also a wonderful sense of humor. He loved trains. Most of all he loved his family. They are a close knit clan who always make every one feel welcome. All our love to the Spacey's.

— The Hanley's
September 14, 2008 at 4:10 p.m.

may he rest in peace. my condolences to his loved ones.

— maria
September 14, 2008 at 4:22 p.m.

I had the privilege of knowing and working with Roger for over 13 years. His smiling face and cheery disposition will be missed by all in our workplace as well by family and friends. Roger had a passion for trains as well as life. He was one of those very fortunate people who lived life to the fullest. I will miss our conversations about his life growing up in England, his journey to Australia as a young man, and his other world travels. I was never a soccer fan but enjoyed talking to Roger about English soccer and his hopes that this was the year his beloved Chelsea would go all the way. We are all better people for knowing him. Cheers Roger!

— Carl Balkcom
September 14, 2008 at 5:07 p.m.

Roger or Rog, as his friends would call him, seized every moment to make sure everyone in his presence was in absolute stitches. When around him I could never just eat and watch a match, my hands were always self consciously buried in my face as I tried desperately to not bring attention to my loud bursts of laughers. My father and brother would do the same. My family was just always so pleased to be around him. He seemed to make everyone around him happier and this will how he will be remembered. My love and thoughts are with the Spacey's.

— Ryan Fisher
September 14, 2008 at 5:20 p.m.

I was blessed to have worked with Roger. He was kind and a great listener. He enjoyed his family immensely. His eyes sparkled in his stories he told and you could feel his love in his stories he shared, especially those about his granddaughter. I'll miss you, bloke! All our love to his family.

— The McClanes
September 14, 2008 at 5:55 p.m.

Roger was a fair and caring person - someone who believes in doing the right thing! He had supported me the brief time that I had worked with him, always taking an interest in how I was doing and if my work was going good. Besides talking about his love of the world as a traveller, he enjoyed talking about his dogs and he often asked how my dogs were doing. Roger has given me alot of good memories - so needless to say his impression will never leave me. I wish good thoughts, peace and love to his family.

— Cynthia
September 14, 2008 at 6:13 p.m.

I had the good fortune of getting to know Roger first on the soccer field. We all feared his wicked left foot and his deft touch for such a big man. He always played with a smile on his face and he always put the smiles on our faces while discussing the game he loved so much over a pint or two. Here's to you Roger...Cheers!

— George Wilhelm
September 14, 2008 at 6:24 p.m.

Even though I have only known Roger for a few months, I have enjoyed getting to know him and have learned a lot from him in the workplace. He loved talking about his grand-daughter and the rest of his family. He always had a way to make everyone smile and laugh. I know for sure Roger will be greatly missed in the work place. My thoughts, prayers, and love go out to his family and friends. We already miss you, Roger.

— Amy Lingenfelter
September 14, 2008 at 6:40 p.m.

It breaks my heart to hear of this sad news, my love goes out to the entire family during this tough time. Roger was a wonderful man who made everyone around him laugh and have fun. I remember the train station in the garage and how much he loved trains. May he rest in peace...........

— Kristi K.
September 14, 2008 at 6:43 p.m.

I new Roger from his soccer days ------ He always had a smile on his face and a great sense of humor -- Simi Valley has lost a very good man ------- he will be missed -Here is to you Roger --Cheers

— Skip Williams
September 14, 2008 at 7:11 p.m.

To the Spaceys: I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all.

— Jenni Kinard
September 14, 2008 at 8:45 p.m.

I worked with Roger for over 12 years. He wrote the best witty limericks. He LOVED trains, his dogs, soccer, telling jokes, cooking and pickled walnuts. He ADORED his family and enjoyed sharing stories about his precious granddaughter. She amazed him everyday. It helps to know he was a happy man and had an incredible zest for life. He will always be part of the Anderson Printing family and will never be forgotten. My condolences to his family. May you heal the pain and fill the void in your hearts knowing he's resting in peace with GOD. He continues to watch over all of you. GOODBYE ROGER...you will be missed.

— Regina
September 14, 2008 at 9:29 p.m.

Roger (Hey Rog!) was a kind and gentle man. Always a smile, always stayed on the cheerful side. A man who truly expressed love to all around him. He had a way of looking at you with a smile & making you feel liked and special. Even if nothing was said.

I miss him already. Walking into work tomorrow will seem strange without him there. Much emptier. Missing something tangible, a happy soul who brightened the space around him.

My prayers are with the Spaceys. May God fill your hearts with love and healing.

To all of us who were blessed to know him, may we celebrate & always appreciate our friend Roger!

— Rod Crosby
September 14, 2008 at 9:37 p.m.

Roger has been a good friend to us for over 18 years. My husband worked with him for 9 years. He was the jolliest brit we ever knew. He loved soccer and was such a good friend to us. Among so many wonderful things he did for people, he scored us great seats for the World Cup in 1994 when Sweden played Camaroon.

There was NEVER time in my presence that he wasn't laughing or goofing around. He never missed important moments in our lives and brought champagne to my hospital room when I delivered our first son, Calle. There are so many funny moments to remember.

He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend who had a great sense of humor and charm.

We are devastated by his passing and we send our love, thoughts, and prayers to Roger, Liz, Matt, Chris, Matt's wife and daughter, and their entire family.

Rest in peace Roger dahling.... we will always love you.

Victoria, Mikael, Calle and Niklas Borjesson

— Victoria Borjeson
September 14, 2008 at 10:31 p.m.

It was an honor knowing Roger. His humor and cheerful ways always filled our work place with laughter. I enjoyed talking with him about our mutual passion for trains and soccer (his beloved Chelsea). I will greatly miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

— Jin
September 14, 2008 at 11:24 p.m.

Roger was the type of person to always help people out. He was a thoughtful and caring person. My condolences to his family.

— Katherine
September 14, 2008 at 11:36 p.m.

My ol' friend Roger...what can I say that havent been said already.

Today when my phone rang and the caller ID showed Roger Spacey,I smiled and was thinking,man,it's been a while,I bet Roger is coming by for a visit.
But when I heard Liz's voice on the other end,I froze,but hoping maybe a suprise party?...but no.
I felt numb and in disbelif.

Roger was not only my "boss" at Anderson Printing for 5 years but also a GREAT friend for the last 18.
We always shared our stories growing up and everyday life,and they usally ended up with a laugh attack.

We also shared the love for football,specially when England met Sweden.And his love for Manchester...sorry Rog,Chelsea.(hahaha)never got old.
And I will never forget when he brought a small 13" tv to work so we could watch all the World Cup 94 games live!
We found a perfect place down in the warehouse behind all the pallets.GAMETIME!

We worked side by side for 5 years and I never seen such a jolly man,or so many calendars featuring TRAINS!
He always talked about his family,from his trips to Australia with Liz or to the day Matt was climbing up on the roof of the house when he was 4,or when Chris brought back his truck without the door on the driverside.
And of course,the train stories,...And all in a traditional Roger fashion ,he'll nurse one arm by the elbow and the other holding his chin...

I cant express how sorry I am to hear the bad news,
and my sympathy goes out to Liz,Matt,Chris and the rest of their family!

We will miss you Roger,and I will miss your christmas card,yes the one with the train on it.

CHEERS!

/Mikael Borjesson

— Mikael Borjesson
September 14, 2008 at 11:51 p.m.

I am so very sorry to hear this news.
My sympathy and condolences to his family.

— Jan Laidlaw
September 15, 2008 at 5:37 a.m.

Known to me and my brother Sean and sister Marieanne as Uncle Papo!

From the wonderful stories and games as a child, destroying our Grandparents sofa as in Papo's mind it was a spaceship! He was always the Alien trying to catch us, he'd chase us around the house until we dived and scrambled onto that old sofa/spaceship to escape before he could destroy us all by the meeting of his two index finger tips infront of his face!
To the fact that a "small trip" made by Papo and Liz from LA to Phoenix last April to visit me there whilst on holiday...nothing was ever too much.

We were all longing to see him in November when he was on his way to see us all again here in England. His brother, Mike, my Dad, most upset that he was not bringing Madison with him!

In memory of the best Uncle in the World xxx

— Jaqi Spacey Niece London England
September 15, 2008 at 6:30 a.m.

Up until a couple of months back i used to chat with roger in the mornings as we waited for the train, It was always nice to start the day with a chat with a fellow Brit.

A great loss, my deepest sympathy to his family.

— Neil
September 15, 2008 at 9:35 a.m.

I'd only known Rog for around 5 years, and only saw him when visiting LA from Seattle on business. But I always would take the time to go and chat football (soccer) with him. We always laughed a lot together, he was such a happy soul.

What a wonderful Englishman.

I am going to send my Chelsea shirt to his co-workers at Anderson Printing where hopefully they will it hang on the bindery wall in remembrance of him.

God bless you Roger.

Cheers Rich

— Rich Lancaster
September 15, 2008 at 9:51 a.m.

I've worked with Roger for so many years. We shared a lot of laughs, talked about our dogs, music, his grand daughter that he was so proud of and he always checked up on how my violin playing was doing. Roger knew when I was having a bad day, he'd give me a hug each time telling me that things will be better.
Roger once told me that his mother had a wonderful singing voice and I knew he did too with the way he whistled. In the morning production meetings, while we sit and wait, sometimes he starts to whistle and I jump in, or sometimes I start and he jumped in. Yeah, I enjoyed the harmony we shared when we whistled. It always made me smile.

I will miss you very much Roger.
My deepest sympathy to his family. May Love and Light be with you always.

— Jacque Baranda
September 15, 2008 at 10:01 a.m.

Uncle Papo, so many childhood memories. Favourite memory for me, Papo and my Dad trying to kick me on the green outside our house whilst we played football (Soccer). They said it would toughen me up for when i played for England in years to come.
I was so excited at the thought of seeing him in November and showing him off to all my friends.
Love you Uncle Papo and Rest In Peace xxxx

— Marieanne Spacey Niece England
September 15, 2008 at 10:14 a.m.

Roger was my great uncle (Papo)i didnt see him much as he lived in America and i live in England i wish i saw him more because when i did see him he was really nice i miss him loads and loads and loads xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

love you great uncle papo x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

— Sophie Spacey,Great niece
September 15, 2008 at 10:32 a.m.

I don't really remember seeing you at all, but I do remember going to your house with your big swimming pool!
I'm always reminded of the story of when I asked why you only had hair at the side of your head! :)
I also remember when you wrote us a letter and you made me laugh 'cos' you joked about how you repeated yourself!
I was rea;;y looking foward to seeing you in November after my birthday and asking you how the We Will Rock You concert was when you went with Nanny and Gunga :)
Will miss you...
Love
Alice xxxxxxx

— Alice Mageean Great Niece England
September 15, 2008 at 11:18 a.m.

I did not know Roger, nor do I barely know his wife Liz, but this morning thinking I am goin to just a regular physical theraphy appointment whis is at the same office where Liz his wife just so happens to work , I cam in to sobbing women not know that their co-worker was one of the 25 families to have lost someone that tragic Friday evening. My heart goes out to Liz and her family, and may her husband rest in peace. I am so sorry for your families lost. You and so many other are in my prayers. God Bless

— Jessica M
September 15, 2008 at 11:19 a.m.

I knew Roger and family when my daughter was dating their son. What a wonderful and special family. I was grieved to hear of your great loss. The world has lost someone very special. My deepest sympathy.

— Linda Crouch Rice
September 15, 2008 at 11:44 a.m.

I had the privilege of talking to Roger once on the train very briefly, I didn't know his name but his smile always caught my attention. He seemed to be a very gentle, kind and friendly person. I am very sad that I won't be seeing him anymore on my morning commute. May he rest in peace and my prayers go out to his family.

— Patricia
September 15, 2008 at 12:29 p.m.

Last Friday evening I could not stop watching the newscast of the accident. I felt compelled to watch out of respect for all the victims suffering that was being endeared. Little did I know that someone I care about deeply was impacted by the tragedy. I did not know Roger but I am friends with his son Chris a.k.a. (Spacey). I know he was extremely close with his dad and my heart broke for him this morning. Spacey, please know, that you and your family are in my prayers and thoughts. I pray for strength and peace. Hold on to your memories and know he is always with you in spirit. I am here for you if and when you need me. xoxoxoxo

— Monique Manczarek
September 15, 2008 at 1:28 p.m.

Roger, Liz, Matt and Chris were family for many years. We met when he and my husband were both new to the U.S from England and worked together. We raised our children together, Roger is Godfather to one of our daughters, and have many happy memories of holidays and birthdays together. How could you not have anything but happy memories of Roger? In recent years we have only kept in touch with Christmas cards (theirs was always the one with the train and it was always the first one we got) and the rare phone call, but Roger, Liz and the boys have remained in my thoughts and in my heart. They are one of the warmest, nicest families I've known.
Roger was truly a special person, so caring and so happy. Even our relatives in England who only met him once or twice when they visited years ago, will often ask about him. Everyone loved Roger. I don't know if words can express the sorrow I feel. My thoughts, prayers and love are with Liz, Matt, Chris and the rest of their family.

— Sera Smith
September 15, 2008 at 1:39 p.m.

All my love and sympathy to Liz, Chris and Matt. Roger will always hold a special place in my heart. He will be deeply missed.

— Kristine Crouch
September 15, 2008 at 1:41 p.m.

Roger was a great man! My husband, Rod worked with him for many years. What I remember most about Roger was his smile and that he was always glad to see me.
I will miss him. We all will. He had a way of making everyone that he came into contact with feel special.
God Bless him and his family.

— Gail Crosby
September 15, 2008 at 1:54 p.m.

Roger was a good friend of my family's. Some my favorite childhood memories include the Spacey's...watching National Lampoon's while the grown-ups would play trivial pursuit! Unfortunately, I haven't seen any of the Spacey's for years, but I remember as a kid how much I would look forward to seeing Roger, Liz, Chris and Matt. I will always remember Roger's cheerful laugh. He was always so happy and friendly. My condolences to the rest of the Spacey's. Roger will be greatly missed.

— Melissa Smith
September 15, 2008 at 2:15 p.m.

Roger was such a pleasant man who had a real sense of what life is about. I'm thankful to have met him. My heart goes out to his wife, Liz & sons Chris and Matt.

— CMA
September 15, 2008 at 2:19 p.m.

All my sympathy to Chris, Matt & his Fam. and to Mrs. Spacey; my respect and condolence be with with all of you.

I worked with Roger ( el pelon) for about 12 years, he used to come down to the silk screen dept. ( in the basement ). We talked about life in general and always enjojed his sense of humor; I realized that Mr. Spacey had a good taste for classical music I used to play and sing along Andrea Bocelli: Roger always complimented me that I have a good tenor voice; so, I sang for him.

SALUTE MY BROTHER! I'll always sing along Andrea B. thinking of You; GOD bless You and your family.

Was a great privilege having You as a co-worker and as a friend.

CHEERS!! G'DAY MATE!

Sincerely, Jose Navarrette.

— Jose Navarrette
September 15, 2008 at 4:22 p.m.

Roger and my brother Tom were good friends. I have heard many a story about the good times they had. I met Roger the last time we visited California....it was a short meeting, but enough for me to agree with all the writings here; that he was a warm inviting person with a ready smile and great sense of humor.
I think perhaps people like Roger are put on this earth to show us how easy it is to toss out a smile to everyone you meet and make the world a better place.
My thoughts are with the family and also with Tom....I know you have lost a treasure.

— Debbie
September 15, 2008 at 7:07 p.m.

May Roger rest in peace.
HE WAS ALWAYS FILLED WITH HAPPINESS AND JOY
WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HIM AS A GREAT CO-WORKER

MAY GOD BLESS HIM AND HIS FAMILY

SINCERELY THE BROTHERS RODRIGUEZ

— JOSE MANUEL RODRIGUEZ & JOSE ALBERTO RODRIGUEZ
September 15, 2008 at 7:56 p.m.

Most of the happy thoughts of my childhood are filled with memories of Roger, Liz, Matt & Chris. Like my sister said, as kids we'd get so excited when we knew there was an upcoming evening or event to be shared with the Spacey's. We would usally talk about it for days before hand. It inevitably meant the kids got to watch movies alone (yes it was usually National Lampoons) in the other room while the adults played Trivial Pursuit. I can remember how happy it made me feel to sit and listen to them. There always seemed to be so much laughter around Roger and Liz. I can still hear Rogers wonderful and infectious laugh and see those sparkling happy eyes. You tend to loose touch with people sometimes but all of the Spacey's have always and will always hold such a special place in my heart and I can't express the sorrow I feel for them right now. I was shattered to hear this news, the world has lost a truly beautiful person. Liz, Matt & Chris I miss you guys, my love and thoughts are with you and the rest of your family and friends right now.

— Rebecka Smith
September 15, 2008 at 9:33 p.m.

My Heart Goes out to Liz, Matt and Chris! Tho i didnt know Roger, I have heard great things about him. Rest In peace,!!!

— Forrest
September 15, 2008 at 10:19 p.m.

It was such sad news when we confirmed this morning that Roger was on that train Friday. We were hoping that the reason he did not answer his cell phone over the weekend was because he was out of town rather than the fact. Roger's smile and great personality will be missed not only by us but by all of those people lucky enough to have known him. Our deepest condolences goes out to his family and other friends because to Roger, we were all family. May he be in peace. With love a great respect.

— Hovik & Monica Oksouzian
September 15, 2008 at 10:28 p.m.

Someone, somewhere in the world may have a better brother, but, as Croker said, I doubt it.

— Mike Spacey
September 16, 2008 at 5:42 a.m.

I knew Roger through my wife, Angelica. She worked with the big guy for almost 14 years in the bindery dept. at Anderson
We'll never forget the time when he came and rescued that old cat Whiskey from an alley near our house.
We'll never forget his joy when crossing the finish line
at last year's Firecracker 5K in Chinatown. We will never forget that big smile. He will always be remembered.

Manuel & Angelica

— M & A Ortega
September 16, 2008 at 9:27 a.m.

I was one of the crew memeber of a ambulance that responded to the accident on that day. I trasported many people that day. I just wanted to say. I'm sorry for your lose.

— Thomas EMS
September 16, 2008 at 9:28 a.m.

We will all miss Roger very much. He always had a smile for every occasion and everyone. We will remember all the great times we had together with him and his family and friends. Roger was always the first to look on the bright side of any situation - even when he forget the tent when we went camping together. He and Liz spent the night in our truck! This story and many others were remembered with lots of laughs every time we all met and will continue to be forever. That is Roger's legacy, we will never forget. Thanks Rog!

— Ian & Mary Garside, Karin & Jennifer.
September 16, 2008 at 10:31 a.m.

Dear Liz,
So sorry to hear about your loss. You babysat our boys, Steve and Greg in the Palisades. In fact, Matt was born while you worked for us. Greg and Steve both remembered you and send you their condolences as well. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family

— Karen Prough
September 16, 2008 at 12:51 p.m.

Both my wife and I had the privledge of knowing and working with Roger at
Anderson Printing. My wife worked with Roger in the Bindery, and says he was the best boss she ever worked for. I will never forget Roger's morning announcements that "For your Dining Pleasure, the Lunch Truck is Here" or Friday's Employee of the Week (made up on the spot!} He was always happy and
that made other people happy! We will miss you Rog! God bless your family!

— Mike & Shelly McClary
September 16, 2008 at 1:46 p.m.

OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCE FOR THE FAMILY. GOD BLESS YOU

— CONNIE FIELDS
September 16, 2008 at 2:52 p.m.

Liz, Matt and Chris:
Roger was a great friend and was always willing to help our family in any way he could. We will never forget how much Pat loved to tease Roger about how he would wake up in the middle of the night to go watch soccer, when he taught Nancy how to fix the dryer, and how he would tease our kids about playing softball instead of soccer, and the kids would tease him back. Words cannot express how sorry we are for your lose. He will be greatly missed.
Love, Pat, Nancy, Nicole and Haley

— Cheek Family
September 16, 2008 at 3:59 p.m.

I was a client of the plant where Roger worked. I had talked with him many times when I was there and always enjoyed his sense of humor and quick smile.

What a wonderful set of comments on this page.

My prayers for the family.

— Tom Graner
September 16, 2008 at 4:29 p.m.

Roger was one of a kind. He touched me and so many other people with his heartfelt kindness and English humor. I observed him thousands of times at lunch putting a smile on strangers face speaking in his native English accent. He was also very proud to be an American.
It was all about trains, soccer, friends, laughing and family. I enjoyed many lunches sitting on a park bench in Travel Town eating a sandwich, drinking a lemonade forgetting about work for a while, listening to Roger talk, hoot and chuff loudly like a locomotive. Roger was Like a knowledgeable tour guide as he knew how the all the train equipment worked old and new. Ironically he died on a train where he was the happiest swaying back and forth.
One day he told me as went to lunch, he had some special new for me. I said I have some special news for him as well, so that day I told him was going to become a father and he proudly quipped he was going to become a grandfather as his face lit up. What a special day we shared! I told him he would be the greatest grandfather to have. As usual roger would return a compliment with a greater compliment. I hope Madison (20 months) his granddaughter whom was shorted her Grandpa finds out what a giant of a man she had for a little while.
I will cherish in my heart many more stories of Roger. Roger was my best friend at work and a most dear friend outside as well. A great personal loss for me, Liz his wife and others. I will truly miss him. John

— John,Sally and Savannah Westlake
September 16, 2008 at 4:42 p.m.

Roger was my "Train Buddy." Every morning at the Simi station we would talk for five minutes before the train arrived. If you ever needed a smile, Roger had one for you. On the morning of the crash someone brought their dog to the station and Roger bent down to say hi and give it a pet. I wish I could say more, but words fall short. He was the best of the best. On behalf of Roger I will keep track of Chelsea and root for them. I will miss you Roger -- very much.

— Steve Zeleny
September 16, 2008 at 6:06 p.m.

Uncle Roger. I remember him from the adventure we had when visiting the US as a child. I remember his passion for trains, the love of his family and his dogs, and the wonderful and exciting stories he shared with us as kids.

Nothing was ever too much trouble for Uncle Roger. Rest in peace.

Our love goes out to Liz, Chris, Matt and the entire family.

Ross & Hayley Billing.

— Ross Billing - Nephew.
September 16, 2008 at 6:25 p.m.

Dear Lizy,chris, and matt, were all sorry about ur loss, roger was such a good friend and neighbor, he was always happy and never saw him mad nor sad. he was a great guy and cared about others. i remember when my son was born, he always called him nikki...he will be greatly missed and always be in my heart.

R.I.P Roger Spacey <3

— Lisa and nikki benavidez
September 16, 2008 at 7:17 p.m.

Well, Roger who is going to make our Christmas Jelly now???

I grew up with Rog in England - our families were the best of friends and we always spent holidays and Christmas together. I remember pushing him around in a pram on our summer vacation so I have known him for all his 60 years - he grew quite a bit in that time and developed his lovely sense of humor, making a laugh out of everything silly. Its his daft sense of humor I will miss the most!!

The jelly thing - Rog always made a jello dessert when we got together at a family gathering....lots of different colors and fruits, a true mystery culinary delight!!

Will miss you lots Rog, it is lovely to have such a long standing friend.

Love to you Liz, Matt and Chris

Tootles........Mary Yasuda.

— mary yasuda
September 16, 2008 at 8:41 p.m.

You were my brother and my friend. We grew up together and played spaceships on the sofa and we shared a house in Australia when you met Liz. We never had a cross word and there are few people on earth who we love as much as you. Life will never replace you.

— Mary and David Billing
September 16, 2008 at 8:52 p.m.

My dear Roger. I will miss you. My deepest condolences to his entire family. Sincerely. Roger was one of the sweetest and most endearing persons you would want to ever meet. He was immensely easy to converse with as he wore his heart on his sleeve.

I worked with Roger at Anderson Printing in the mid to late 90's and recently rekindled the relationship as we happened to meet on the Metrolink in January '08. We would talk about the "old days" and carry quite a few laughs along with our conversations.

I have read all of the comments posted here and they are a true testament of whom Roger was, I truly appreciated and respected him as he will be with me for the remainder of my life.

God Bless you Roger, please keep heaven as organized and happy as you kept us and your profession, you will be missed dearly.

— Stan Frgacic
September 16, 2008 at 9:23 p.m.

Liz, Matt, Chris -
I've been your neighbor for a long time & treasure my visits with Roger when he would walk by, or I would stop at his/your house. He would always ask how my kids were, & want to know more than me saying "their fine". Also, he'd tell me the latest critisism about Matt or Chris. THEN, he'd shift gears real fast, put on that great smile of his, puff up his chest & tell me about all their accomplishments & how proud he was of his 2 boys/men. This is not a made up memory - if you knew Roger for just a few minutes, you knew what he said was from the depths of his heart. Then we'd talk about our grandkids. Although he only had "Matti", you would have thought she was the only granddaughter in the world! When he & gramma Liz brought her by in her stroller for the past year or more, Roger would slow down at my driveway & look in my garage to see if I was there & call me out to "show her off". Could a granpa love his granddaugher any more? I will miss Roger's love, smile & and his visit's for a LONG time to come. Liz, Matt & Chris, I hope to remain your loving neighbor for a long time, you have truely been blessed to have had such a special gift from God!!

— mike kelly
September 16, 2008 at 10:49 p.m.

My family (the Quiroga family) would like to send our thoughts, prayers and condolences to the Spacey family. My father, Carlos Quiroga was a co-worker of Roger's at Anderson Printing (Cahuenga & Willoughby facility, Hollywood). My father said Roger was a great guy. My father remembers the things they had in common (soccer) and the chats they would have. Roger will be missed by everyone he ever knew.

This message was posted on behalf of my father: Carlos Quiroga and uncle Andre Quiroga (former co-workers at Anderson Printing/Andresen Typographics)

— Jessica Quiroga-Bantug
September 16, 2008 at 11:46 p.m.

YOU WERE SIMPLY THE BEST.
we will all miss you very much
rest in peace

— Eileen Spacey Sister-in-law
September 17, 2008 at 3:31 a.m.

My first memory of Roger is of a gangly 22 year old at Southampton about to embark on the Angelina Lauro for a new life in Australia - along with myself, my then [new] husband Chas, and many other hopefuls. What fun you were, we all became such good friends and early years in Australia are full of Roger stories, which I still relate from time to time ... they could fill a whole book! My last memory of seeing Roger was at Paddington Station, when he was in the UK for a visit in the late eighties [I was by then living back in England] - when he lolled [in typical Roger fashion] over the barrier at the end of the platform, awaiting my arrival with my two daughters, and chuckling away, when he spotted us, at the drollness of the situation.

In the years since, he has handwritten newsy letters every year, to keep me up to date with his life. He clearly adored his family, and the Christmas before last sent me a photo of his little grandaughter of whom he was immensely proud.

Having only heard the news this morning from my also good friend, his sister Mary, I am finding it hard to take in - what a cruel fate has taken such a wonderful chap away from all those who loved him. Reading the obituaries above brought tears to my eyes and a lump to my throat, because everything said is so true and, dear Roger, you obviously changed so little over the years and have continued to bring happiness through your kindness and your own special brand of humour to all you who knew you, however briefly that may have been.

I am so sorry for the devastation felt by your family right now. I will always remember you with love and affection - and I am so sad that we never did make it to meet up again in later life.

— Sally Mays
September 17, 2008 at 3:52 a.m.

You will never be forgotten.Thanks for being the best uncle and friend anyone could ever hope and dream of having
xxx

— sean spacey(nephew)
September 17, 2008 at 5:20 a.m.

What a truly remarkable man! Yes, Roger always showed compassion, thoughtfulness, kindness, humor and most of all his "gentle" man spirit of love.

A day wouldn't go by without the big smile. Don't worry, Roger would say, "Make the Best of It". What a gift of his positive attitude he shared.

The sparkle he gave so freely at Anderson Printing everyday reminded me just what it was all about. So many times he would beam with a big smile and say, "Life's moments are most precious.. It will all work out".

Your family can treasure all the joy's he gave so freely.
Liz, God bless you always. And may your beautiful family
hold dear the fond memories of such a "special man".

Love and Prayers,
Carol Westlake

— Carol Westlake
September 17, 2008 at 7:44 a.m.

Dear Liz, Matt & Chris, I am just so sorry for your loss, please accept our Deepest Sympathy. I loved meeting you all when you came to England and what i got from your visit was what a close family you all were and Roger in particular loved not only his immediate family but his extended family and showed interest in everyone. He was unique and special and I know Sean was very grateful to him for showing him round LA when he came to visit, a memory now he will treasure forever. I'm just sorry that Kaitlin who is now 7 will not get the opportunity to meet him and experience the fun loving man that he was. May he rest in Peace, you are all in our prayers. Love Catherine & Kaitlin xxxx

— Catherine&Kaitlin, England
September 17, 2008 at 8:18 a.m.

Our lives are brighter for having known and loved you, a little dimmer now that you are gone. We will celebrate your life and have many stories to tell Madison that will keep you close to her. Liz, Matt, Chris, Danielle and Maddie you know we are here. All our love

— Alice, Richard, Kate, Harvey, Jeff & Gwyneth
September 17, 2008 at 9:19 a.m.

I've been reading the comments for several days now, wanting to post some of my own but too gutted to know where to start. I've know Roger for many years, first getting to know him through our halftime walks around Old Pasadena as we took in the football (we are Chelsea brethren). But we talked about more than just the footie, and knew and kept up with each other's goings on, and shared the joys and sorrows of life. It seems like at every party, my wife Diane would end up talking to Roger most of the evening, later telling me how much she enjoyed his humour, his stories, and his outlook. That's the kind of fellow he was.

I always enjoyed meeting his many relatives who would visit from around the world from time to time, and to all of you I send my deepest and most heartfelt condolences.

Lastly, on behalf of all Roger's many friends from "the pub," we are all thinking of the Spacey family during your difficult days. Know that you have our lasting support.

This one's for you, Rog: Come on, Chelsea! Come on, you Blues!

— Kyle Baker and Diane Ikemiyashiro, Pasadena CA
September 17, 2008 at 11:05 a.m.

There are no words to describe Roger or Rogelio has I used to call him he was a very happy person and always with his big smile made my day go fast working with him was one of the best times in my life he was like a father to me a mentor but most important a friend . He will understand me and always give me an advice,I will miss Him All my Respects and condolences to his family God Bless You All

— Zully Reinschmidt
September 17, 2008 at 2:46 p.m.

Liz, Matt, Chris and family:

My sympathy and prayers are with you all. Although we never knew each other well, my memories of Roger are of a smiling, happy, nice man. Reading all of these comments from those who knew him well reinforce those memories. I'm very sad to hear of your loss.

I am living in Idaho with my wife and 3 kids and when I heard about this accident I followed the story to make sure I did not know anyone who was on the train. Sadly we did.

I hope that you are able to remember all these wonderful times you had with a very special Husband and Father to carry you through this tough time.

God Bless.

— Tim Kelly - Former neighbor
September 17, 2008 at 2:49 p.m.

Roger was a magnifiscent neighbor for a long time.We always talked a lot about everything, and help us a lot. we always saw him many times, gardening, and that was his favorite thing.and then in the evening, we alwaays heard them out in their back yard, laughing and talking. he and his wife always like wine and he wanted to learn how to make wine. Evety morning we always spotted him walking his dogs, and used to play with our dog. David and me will always him alot, not to see him in his yard, outside, or walking.

and may he rest in peace.

Eleanor Benavidez.

— eleanor
September 17, 2008 at 5:11 p.m.

Every great once in a while, you meet an amazing kindred spirit. Roger was a unique loving soul. I'll always remember his wonderful sense of humor and the tremendous sense of love you would feel as he spoke about his wife, boys and his lovely new grand-daughter.

My deepest condolences to the entire Spacey family. I was deeply saddened to hear of his passing.

I'll never forget a soccer match, a pint and a proper English breakfast with Rog. God bless and keep him.

— Kristina
September 17, 2008 at 10:11 p.m.

As a casual friend of Roger, I was deeply saddened when I received a phone call at 10:10 Sunday evening from a friend who saw Roger's name on the news. Somewhere between 10-15 years I have been watching football matches(soccer games) on Saturday mornings in Pasadena at 7:00 with Roger, which is a healthy trek from Simi Valley on a day when most people sleep in.

Like many other have stated, he was always good for a smile. He had a solid perspective and his demeanor was not overly affected by the outcome of the matches as opposed to many of the rest of us rabid fans at that unusual hour of the day.

Although I knew of his sons, I never met them, and I believe I met his wife once and met his brother once, please accept my condolances which I cannot articulate well. I am saddened that he is gone, I find myself fortunate to read so many honourable rememberances of a truly gentle man.

— darin
September 18, 2008 at 12:51 p.m.

To Roger's Family-
I was a co-worker at Anderson Printing from '91 thru '01. Roger loved people, his work, soccer, trains, and animals.
We shared a love of cats and sports. He had a ready smile and a shoulder to cry on if you needed it.
We all loved his British accent and genial disposition.
Well Chappy, I'll miss you. You left us much too soon.
My heartfelt condolences to his family.

— Jerry Brown
September 18, 2008 at 3:07 p.m.

Roger,
you will be missed at the once a year gathering at the race track at Santa Anita, I will not be able to ask you for any more tips on the horses. I thank Ian and Mary for having introduced you and Liz to Carol and I.

— Charles Barcelata
September 18, 2008 at 3:43 p.m.

Liz, Matt and Chris
shocked and saddened to hear the tragic news of Roger. My thoughts are with you all.

— Trisha Proudman
September 18, 2008 at 6:44 p.m.

My mother and I worked once with Roger for years at the hollywood plant he was such a great man always had a smile in he's face I clearly remember the last day's I worked with him he told me when the company moves to glendale you will be able to walk to work cause i live nearby and he said and "im going to ride the metrolink" prayers go out to the Spacey family he always talked about you guys!

R.I.P love Bibi

— Ana Arevalo
September 18, 2008 at 7:24 p.m.

I did not know Roger, but rode in the same train car he was in every morning. I enjoyed listening to his "English accent", and he was always friendly to everyone. My heart goes out to his family.

— B. Soto
September 18, 2008 at 8:15 p.m.

Roger our brother in law was a loving, caring and generous gentleman. Rest in peace. Our love and condolences to Tiz, Matt, Chris and familes from John, Ev, Clayton, Simon and familes from Down Under Australia.

— John & Ev Ottley - Australia
September 18, 2008 at 8:29 p.m.

Roger ,you have been a in law to the Reberger's & Ottley's downunder for i guess 35yrs , not once have i heard a bad word said about the lanky Pom , mind you plenty of Pommy bashing but it was all in good jest. I remember with fondness of the time you brought Tiz,Matt & young Chris ,back home to Leeton & you never had a beer out of your hand the whole time , you got to celebrate a footy final's win with my local team . Then many yrs later i travelled to the u.s to visit with a mate Tonka whom you had never met but you Tiz & the boy's showed Tonka the same affection as you did to our clan from day dot. Tonka & i had just a great time with you even though that was 16 yrs ago it can be measured so easily because you were such a great host , we got to meet your workmates downtown in Hollywood , you introduced us to Clint Eastwood , Peter Fonda , we had a great social game of soccer with your mates down at some dustbowl , then off to your local for heaps of pints . Roger & Tizzy took us for day trips , nothing seemed to be to much trouble . We even had plenty of games of eucre where Rog was pretty good.
Just recently with our $ looking very strong against the u.s $ a trip to the states was looking good for my wife Antje & i ,i told her of what a great family the Spacey's are. I know in my heart that Antje would haved warmed to Roger just like our family has. Roger you will be missed by many , just make sure your at the gate when it's time to arrive there in heaven Rest in Peace mate

— greg reberger sydney australia
September 19, 2008 at 6:37 a.m.

i know exactly how you feel, my father had passed in that accident, i will pray for him and the whole family. HUGS

— Mey Chao
September 19, 2008 at 9:55 a.m.

First of all, let me say my family and i send out our sympathy and condolences to Roger's family. I worked with Roger for almost 6 years. When i first started i was only 16 years old. He was a happy person, nice, hard working, and more to go on... my mom, my dad, my brothers, my aunt, and my cousins, and myself, worked there at one time so he knew part of my family. It was an honor to work with him. I will never forget him, and will always have him in my prayers.
May You Rest In Peace... Roger Spacey...

— Martha Mejia And Family, Bakersfield, CA.
September 19, 2008 at 10:08 a.m.

I did not know Roger, but I went to High School with his son Chris. I can not beleive that both of our fathers were victims of this horrible event. My thoughts go out to the entire family.

Diane Adair- Buckley
( daughter of victim Alan Buckley)

— Diane-Adair Buckley
September 19, 2008 at 11:32 a.m.

I was very saddened to hear that Roger Spacey was one of the victims of that crash. My sympathies go out to his family. I used to work with Roger a few years ago and I remember him as a caring person. Roger, may God bless your soul and provide some peace and comfort to your family.

— Marjorie Yabut-Kuchta
September 19, 2008 at 12:08 p.m.

I just found out that Roger was one of the victims of that crash. I work with Roger for about 5 years and he was a joy to work with. Very sad to hear about his passing.

To the Spacey's family, There is so little we can say at a time of loss like this but know that my heart goes out to you.

— Patty Thompson, Willis, TX.
September 19, 2008 at 2:37 p.m.

The Spacey's have been great friends and neigbors for many years. Roger was the greatest guy and will be missed dearly. He loved his family Liz, Matt, and Chris. I would see him at least 3 times a week walking with the dogs. I would like to express my condolenses for the family.

— Dave Just
September 19, 2008 at 3:42 p.m.

Just wanted to send my condolences to the family. My son played sports with Roger's sons and we'd hang out on the sidelines. It's been many years but I do recall discussing the double M formation. Bless you all.

— KD Grandchamp
September 20, 2008 at 7:46 a.m.

Life will not be the same now you are gone and it smashing having you as our cousin especially when we were growing up you and Richard playing with your Train Set and me and Mary playing Nurses, upstairs at your house when we visited with our Mum and Dad.

— Jean and Richard Terry - Cousins - England
September 20, 2008 at 12:18 p.m.

I have so many great memories of Roger and am so glad my parents befriended the Spacey's so many years ago. I look forward to many more holidays together but will miss Roger and his corny jokes forever.

— Kate Snowden Harris
September 21, 2008 at 7:12 p.m.

I just returned home this evening from Paris and heard of the news. I would just like to say what an honor it is to have been able to meet Mr. Spacey (a.k.a. Matt's dad). Although I didn't get to spend a lot of time with him, I did enjoy his company and loved to talk trains with him as well. He was always very welcoming and a pleasure to be around.

My prayers for comfort and deepest sympathy go out to all of his friends and family.

— Wendy Bowie (Musselman)
September 21, 2008 at 9:10 p.m.

Roger will always be near and dear to all of our hearts. His kindness and sincerity touched the lives of many. I have many fond memories of Rog from as far back as I can remember and will treasure them always.

I wish I could of been there on Saturday. All my love to Lizzie, Matt and Chris.

— Jen Yasuda
September 22, 2008 at 3:38 p.m.

I first noticed Roger because of his British accent. We started talking and one of our favourite topics was Indian food. He told me that he loved Indian food and requested that for his birthday. He never fails to say good morning or have a nice weekend. He inquired to the well being of my two boys since he had two of them as well. My heartfelt condolences go out to his wife and sons.

Eternal rest grant unto you

— Thuli Jitendran - Burbank CA
September 23, 2008 at 9:01 p.m.

We remember so well the long walk from school, the football teams, the matches and Rogers infectious laughter, in those crazy days near the Beverley Pub.

So long ago, but never forgotten.

Our thoughts are with his family.

Dave, Brian, Chris & Dick (London, England)

— Dave King
September 24, 2008 at 11:47 a.m.

To Chris, and the entire family. Our heart and prayers are with you. Im so very sorry to hear of your loss, God Bless. Your friends....

— Chad and Melinda Reist
September 24, 2008 at 12:20 p.m.

So many wonderful tributes, so well-deserved for such a dear person. Although it's been many years since we last saw each other......on a family visit to the Spacey home with Mary and her family, when Chris and Matt were quite small, I have warm memories of Roger. His passing is a great loss to the Spaceys but I hope the numerous fond memories will continue to warm your hearts forever.

— Caroline Ashford
September 28, 2008 at 12:25 p.m.

To Aunty Liz, Matt and Chris, We are all so sorry about Roger. Our thoughts are with you now and always. Love Jenny, Mike and Kiyah

— Jenny Billing niece Australia
September 29, 2008 at 3:24 p.m.

Though we all may have lost someone who is a big part of our lives and our hearts and we are not able to replace or fill that emptyness that our love ones have taken with them when they left this world. but i hope that maybe we all can come together and allow each other to come into each others lives since i know that we all share the same pain. when my father passed in that metrolink 2008 crash my life has not been the same and its been very difficult, my father left behind his wife and 5 children and so many grand children, and we all miss and love him so much but talkin about him with my family and remembering all the good times we had with him helps us with our pain of losing him. so i just would like to let you all know i am here if you need to talk or just someone to listen to you. my email is

chaomey82@gmail.com

my hearts and prayers go out to you.

— mey chao
October 1, 2008 at 10:12 a.m.

Roger was the best soccer coach ever for a newly adopted little boy who spoke little English. We will always be grateful for Roger's kindness and the way he brought joy to our son/brother on the soccer field. Our thoughts are with you.

— The Partner's-Sally, Arno, Sarah, Ali, Juan-Carlos
October 2, 2008 at 10:50 p.m.

Oh Rog! What will we do without you? Do you remember 30 years ago when I complained to you how hard it was to make friends in a new country and then realized you were my friend?
If it wasn't for you, I wouldn't be playing soccer today. Thank you.
Nobody else acknowledges that Zola is the ugliest man in the Premiership.
Who will we send to chat to people when we are too shy to make the approach?
You are irreplaceable. I can't write anymore.

— Keith Fisher
October 3, 2008 at 11:02 a.m.

We are so sorry for your loss, we didn't know Roger but he sounds like a wonderful person. We also lost our son Christopher in the accident and know the sorrow you must be feeling. May the wonderful memories you have sustain you.

— Donna & Roy Aiken
October 4, 2008 at 2:21 p.m.

Roger Spacey, the wonderful Roger Spacey. You were a steadfast friend, a loving parent, and devoted husband. We all looked up to you, and not because you actually did tower over all of us. How can we say goodbye when it's so easy to still see your lanky frame striding across the patio, or hear echoes of your easy chuckle, or remember your gentle encouragement to any and every little child who needed it? It seems impossible that such goodness could vanish so completely. Thank you always-- for your friendship through three decades, for your many kindnesses, and, yes, it must be said, even for that dreadful joke about 'dog throat.'

— MargaretD
October 7, 2008 at 12:46 p.m.

I will never forget your sense of humor, your laugh, your smile. You will always be be remembered as a fun loving,happy go lucky man.
I will never forget when you got a speeding ticket on the 170 freeway because you were in a zone listening to a train CD, while passing a California Highway Patrol Officer.
The laughs we had will last a lifetime, and so will the memories.

Thanks Roger,

ALL ABOARD, NEXT STOP HEAVEN.

Patrick Cheek

— Patrick Cheek
October 8, 2008 at 12:34 a.m.

My earliest memory of Roger is a trip to the LA Zoo with Liz. I was about four years old. I also remember attending Liz & Roger's wedding with my parents, which was a very small event. Roger was the only soul brave enough to teach me how to drive in the blue station wagon when I was sixteen. I have lots of other fond memories since then too. Roger was just like an Uncle to me because I have known him forever it seems. I will miss you Roger

— Karin Yasuda
October 8, 2008 at 10:45 p.m.

When l typed in Roger`s name on my computer l thought of all the great times we had telling jokes in the pubs around Wimbledon.Retelling jokes,because Roger`s laugh attracted half the pub to our little circle.And the teams that loved to bowl against the 5 crazy young guys who didn`t care if they won or lost, but just laughed.
When Rog went to the World Cup in Mexico (Soccer) with my friend John, and then came back and said he was off to Australia,we thought he was mad.But that was Rog.He wrote to us about his adventures,which were many,but when the letter arrived to say he was married,and living in the U.S. we just smiled.Lin and l visited Rog and Liz in LA in 1980,with our children Sarah and Andrew,and had a great time.
Well mate,l think the last laugh is on me!We will have to catch up on old times at a later date.
It was great to see you grew into a man everybody wanted as a friend,there was no doubt.
God Bless You Rog,and your lovely family....Ken and Linda Mills.

— Ken & Linda Mills
May 11, 2009 at 5:51 a.m.

Months have passed but Roger's spirit is around all of us who reach out or who just want to share some time again since he was such a short time here on earth Roger surrounds us his is such a bright star one of few, wow I feel blessed to have shared life on earth with Rog. Peace to Liz Matt Danielle Maddy and Chris. Remember Poppi's in the moon Goodnight Moon Love Janice

— Janice & Richard
July 28, 2009 at 6:14 p.m.

A year on...still loved and missed xxx

— Jaqi Spacey
September 12, 2009 at 1:16 a.m.

Roger, although i never saw you i know my daddy always loved you. I will always think about you in my prayers and will never ever forget you. I was really looking forward to seeing you in november and so sorry I never got to meet you. I was so sad and i hadn't even seen you before but it was that you were my Great uncle and nothing would stop me from crying. xxxxxxxxx

— kaitlin spacey
April 16, 2010 at 4:22 a.m.

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Keep in mind
  • The Times initially mispelled the name of Michael Hammersley and Beverly Mosley.
  • The coroner's office reported a 26th victim the afternoon of Sept. 15, but a few hours later said the tally was 25.

Chatsworth Metrolink Crash is the Los Angeles Times' database of fatalities from the Sept. 12, 2008, train collision.
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Latest Numbers

25 dead

135 injured

About the Data Desk

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