Roger B. Trexler, 86, of Emmaus, passed away from heart failure in his favorite room of his home the morning of June 9, 2026. He was born in Allentown and lived his whole life in Emmaus and Allentown – with the exception of a brief stint in Houston, TX after college. He truly appreciated his life in Emmaus and especially the time he grew up there. He had so many wonderful childhood memories with his family and neighborhood friends. At a recent lunch to honor Roger, some of his childhood friends attended and remembered meeting him on the school playground, and said he was definitely the “Ruler/Leader of the Playground!”

Roger was a 1958 graduate of Emmaus High School, where he was the varsity quarterback on the football team, played basketball, baseball, and golf, as well as running track and was president of the Wrestling Club. He was also known for his dance moves! He was also a 1962 graduate of Susquehanna University, earning a BS in accounting. He was a member of the Phi Mu Delta Fraternity and was the quarterback of the football team, played basketball, tennis, and intramural sports.

Roger worked for General Acceptance Corp. in Houston, TX for 3 years after college. He had an entrepreneurial spirit and purchased 2 apartment buildings, fixed them up, and rented the units out for decades. He also worked for the United States Postal Service for 20 years.

Rog was extremely athletic and truly loved sports – participating and watching. He was especially passionate about football. He was Penn State’s biggest fan, and the Eagles and Phillies were his teams. He enjoyed many vacations to “The Shore” with friends and family throughout his life. Stone Harbor, NJ was his favorite. He loved going to dances throughout his entire life. He coached little league football and stayed in touch with a lot of his players. They all have fond memories of “Coach!”

Roger loved golfing and having long lunches and political discussions with his buddies (nicknamed “The Straight Shooters”) after a round of golf. He actively followed politics and watched a lot of Fox News. He loved animals, especially dachshunds, and rescued several over his lifetime. He was a wonderful son, brother, cousin, uncle and friend to many. So many have said he always had a kind word and quick wit. He faced his health challenges with bravery and perseverance and never complained. Roger will be missed by many.

Roger is survived by two nieces, Kristin J. Crosley of Arvada, CO and Kim E. Crosley of Castle Rock, CO; Randy Fick of Emmaus, whom he thought of as a son; Theresa Unger – special family member; and many cousins and lifelong friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Frederic P. Trexler and Dorothy M. (Rothrock) Trexler of Emmaus; a sister, Linda A. (Trexler) Baker, and brother-in-law, Philip A. Baker, both of Venice, FL.

A small Celebration of Life luncheon will take place in the upcoming months for close friends and family, and will be organized by his family. Schantz Funeral Home, P.C., Emmaus is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, please consider adopting a pet from a shelter or donating to the ASPCA in his memory. (www.aspca.org)