Roger W. Ricci, age 50 of Bemidji, MN passed away Monday, June 29, 2020.

Roger was born March 17, 1970 in Minneapolis, MN. At 3 months of age, William and Dona Ricci became his adoptive parents and he was christened Roger William Ricci. He grew up in the small town of Oakdale, MN with his siblings, Dawn and Bill. Karate, camping, swimming, music and collecting beer cans were his hobbies growing up. Roger graduated from Tartan High School and later attended Northwest Technical College for an Electrician license. He also felt drawn to become a chef and enjoyed cooking new things.

In June 1999, he married Josie Begay, they lived in Duluth, Phoenix and Bemidji. Together they had two children, Vincent and Sophia. His greatest loves were his children, and he enjoyed his role as Mr. Mom for many years. With the help of brother-in-law Gene, Roger was able to connect with his Native roots and became an enrolled member of th White Earth Band of Ojibwe. Roger was close to the Begay family; many nieces and nephews loved their Uncle Rog!

Roger was a quiet man by nature, he watched and listened to all things around him. His love of music was instilled at an early age due to his musical family! He enjoyed helping others, even when he needed help himself. Recently Roger fulfilled a bucket list item when he and Sheri made a trip to Peru. He loved his new passport and had hoped to travel many places.

He is survived by his children Vincent, Sophia, Damion and Mario; sister Dawn (Mike) Clark; brother Bill Ricci; special friend Sherilyn Brumback; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents William G. Ricci and Dona M. (Ricci) Rotter; in-laws Dr. Eugene and Bernice Begay Sr; grandparents Ray and Dorothy Rotter, Frank and Carmel Ricci.

Tribal Funeral Rites will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at Chief Lake Indian Burial Grounds with burial to follow. Chato "Ombishkebines" Gonzalez will officiate.