After his discharge from the Army in August of 1969, and living in San Jose, California where he was born, he attended San Jose City College and enrolled in Ceramics. Under the direction of his teacher, Jim Wayne, he learned many techniques in hand building, throwing on the wheel, sculpture, glazing, and firing, which included Raku, his passion.

After completing all the ceramic classes that City College had to offer, he continued to help out in the studio by loading and unloading kilns, mixing glazes, and doing whatever he could do, in exchange to be able to work in the studio.

After completing college, Roger started in his career in the medical field, got married, and bought his first house.  His 2 car detached garage was quickly converted into a pottery studio, where he continued working with pottery as a side business.

Five years later, Roger had his first child, and soon after, a second, and priorities changed.  Spending more time with his daughter and son, and spending his money on domestic things, instead of clay and supplies, Roger decided to call it quits, and sold all of his equipment.

After retiring, from the medical field in 2002, and now with his kids all grown up and out of the house, Roger wanted to get back into Ceramics. He enrolled again in ceramic classes at San Jose City College in the fall of 2007. Under the direction of Michelle Gregor, he has continued ever since, working with clay, mixing and formulating his own glazes, and helping out with the Raku firings that are done in class.

With students at all different levels, he not only acts as a mentor to many, but also learns from others as well.  His passion is still in Raku, and has formulated several glazes, currently being used by the class.

The Big Kahuna is thankful for all the support he receives from many people including Michelle Gregor, John McGinley, Steve Salisian, and many fellow classmates.