Philip C. Roller

Phil graduated from Panama High School in 1959, soon thereafter joining the US Air Force. Following two weeks of basic training, Phil was called into the Air Force Band. His musicianship spanned across many instruments and groups, notably his trumpeting with jazz bands in California clubs.

Due to Phil’s innate intelligence, he made an impressive military run in radar stations. Through multiple bases across the country, Phil keenly recounted his days in the Arctic Circle watching the Russians while also befriending Eskimos, and polar bears alike. Kotzebue National Forest is still home to a single tree that Phil, and his fellow wingmen planted.

Phil’s Air Force path laid the groundwork for a successful career with Truck-Lite. The third employee hired by the company, Phil worked tirelessly for 48 years, retiring as the Chief Research Engineer; explicitly, his expertise was nearly impossible to replace, as proven by his three years of work post-retirement.

A mechanical mind that knew no end, Phil never rested. Between 1972 and 2009, there were over 30 patents with his name on them. Phil developed one of the first LED lights and remained a pioneer in the industry. Whether it was building the family’s own televisions, computers, and even an organ, or fixing old-school electronics of all types for friends, Phil did it all. The homestead was fully finished by his own skills, including all the electrical and carpentry work.

Trains and planes held Phil’s interest for his entire lifetime. He adored the Dart Airport Glider Club, “Aero Soaring,” where he rebuilt wrecked airplanes. Even in his final days, when tasked with drawing a plane, Phil’s artistic hand sketched the entirety in a matter of minutes.

Phil and his wife, Sue, embraced his fascination with trains in traveling the entire United States by rail; additionally, they took many cruises which he quietly fancied despite his unwavering grumpy disposition.

The soap box derby became a three-generation attraction thanks to Phil’s passion. Phil raced in the 1950’s followed by his son and grandchildren. To this day Roller Racing has supplied cars and the love of derby for over 20 kids, with numerous trips to the world championships in Akron, Ohio.

Phil attended every local event for his grandchildren. Pride abounded for their talents musically and athletically.

Between past years with soap box derby and involvement with Boy Scouts as a Cub Master, many would go to Phil for answers. Nowadays we call that Google.

The avant-garde mind that characterized Phil’s life was also juxtaposed with his hushed soul. Phil made a good living, yet lingered with generosity, to a fault, for everyone. There were no internet search engines for him, but, instead, careful reasoning and thought for the betterment of others.

Phil’s humble, affable, and inventive spirit will be missed by his wife, (Donna) Sue Kent Roller, whom he married May 27, 1967; his children, Jeannine (Scott) Canaan of Piffard, NY, Chris Roller of Jamestown; and Al (Krista) Roller of Bemus Point; 12 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; his brother, Timothy Roller of Lakewood; his sister, Maryann Roller of Blockville; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Phil was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Debbie Roller.

The family would like to thank the staff at Heritage Village in Gerry. They became a loving, compassionate part of his family. The staff is appreciated for their boundless devotion and sacrifice to provide for him the quality of life befitting of such a man.

The funeral service for Phil will be at 12 Noon on Monday, April 7, 2025, at Lind Funeral Home. Pastor Robert Benson will officiate. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation from 1-4 pm Sunday, April 6, 2025, at Lind Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Aero Soaring Club located at Brokenstraw Airport, 141 Airport Road, Pittsfield, PA 16340.

To leave words of condolence, please visit lindfuneralhome.com.