Roger A. Woodside

Roger A. Woodside, 76, of Ellensburg, passed away on Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at the Kittitas Valley Hospital. His family will honor his life privately.

Roger was born on July 20, 1948 in Olympia, Washington to Alexander & Hazel (Torkewitz) Woodside. He grew up in Thurston County and graduated from Tumwater High School in 1966. He joined the Navy in 1967 and served for a couple years before being honorably discharged. He later went on to study at Southern Illinois University where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Work Force Coordination.

Roger married Linda Mason, on June 20, 1969 in Olympia. They had known each other since the fifth grade and were high school sweethearts.

Whether it was his time as a firefighter and paramedic in Tumwater, his service as Chief of the Tenino Fire Department or working as a social worker for DSHS, Roger dedicated his life to public service. He was instrumental in developing the Fire Fighter First Responder program for the State of Washington and helped to write and publish many First Responder program manuals over the years. He also served as a leader, instructor, and mentor for generations of firefighters.

Roger enjoyed hunting, the outdoors and fishing as well as time with his family.

Roger is survived by his loving wife Linda; sons Paul (Heather) Woodside and Dilyn Woodside as well as his granddaughter Jenna Woodside. He was preceded in death by his son, Joseph; his parents; two brothers and a sister.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Johnston & Williams of Ellensburg.