Roger Dean Saterfiel

Roger Dean Saterfiel, age 73, of Hayden, Idaho, passed away on January 10, 2026, with his beloved wife by his side. Born on August 12, 1952, in Spokane, Washington, to Albert and Juanita (Krell) Saterfiel, Roger grew up in Dalton Gardens and graduated from Coeur d’Alene High School in 1972. In 1988, Roger met Stephanie, and after living together for ten years they were finally married in 1998. Together, they built their life in Hayden, Idaho, and raised their children, Trisha Saterfiel and Addison Saterfiel.

Roger began his career working for Hal Damiano, whom he always deeply respected, before joining the Kootenai County Solid Waste Department in 1986. He continued his dedicated service there until his retirement in 2014. Known as the "Garbage Guru," Roger was recognized for his hard work and rose to become the Director of Solid Waste. Despite having only a high school diploma, he excelled in a role typically requiring a four-year college degree and played a key part in building Idaho’s first “State of the Art” transfer station.

Roger contributed significantly to the development of the Ramsey Transfer Station, the Fighting Creek Landfill, and the Prairie Transfer Station. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was deeply committed to his community. He served on the Kootenai County Fair Board for ten years and on the Hayden City Council for sixteen years. Roger and his wife delivered Meals on Wheels and volunteered at the Hayden Senior Center. He was also involved in Boy Scouts with Addison and coached his son’s baseball teams throughout the years. Roger and Stephanie enjoyed traveling, glamping, riding ATVs, and going on cruises. A dedicated Boston Celtics fan since childhood, Roger was surprised by his wife with tickets to a Celtics game while visiting Boston in 2016. He loved going to Rollins Montana with his wife and her partner in crime Mayme. Above all, his greatest joy was being “Pops” to his beloved grandchildren, Payton and Arlo.

Roger is survived by his wife of 38 years, Stephanie (Mille) Saterfiel; daughter Trisha Saterfiel; son Addison (Michelle) Saterfiel; grandchildren Payton (6) and Arlo Dean (3), brother Ron (Selma) Saterfiel, mother-in- law Sharon Mille, as well as many cherished cousins and friends. Among his closest friends were Steve (Diane) Wulf and Mayme Ober, who affectionately called him the “Commander.” Roger’s relationship with Michelle was especially meaningful—he often said he had two daughters and loved her as his own.

Roger was a huge presence not only to his family but also to the community. Roger’s impact extended far beyond his immediate family—he was a remarkable presence within the entire community. His absence leaves a profound void, not only in the hearts of those who loved him but also throughout the many lives he touched in Hayden and beyond.

Being loved by Roger was a profound privilege and one of life’s greatest gifts. The partnership we shared was deeply meaningful, filled with mutual respect, kindness, and unwavering support. He gave of himself generously, enriching our lives together with warmth and devotion. The time we spent together was truly an honor, and his love has left an indelible mark on my heart.

He was preceded in death by his father, Albert, mother Juanita, and father-in-law Frank Mille.

A celebration of Roger’s life will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at the Hayden Eagles, 1520 W. Wyoming Ave., in Hayden, Idaho.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Roger’s name to the City of Hayden Arts Commission to sponsor a bench, or to Hospice of North Idaho, whose compassionate care supported Roger and Stephanie during his final week.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to the City of Hayden Employees, Hospice of North Idaho, English Funeral Chapel, Kasi and Brian Miller, Mayme Ober, Ron Jr. Saterfiel, Abbi Sanchez (“his girl”), and the Coeur d’Alene Press.

Arrangements are entrusted to English Funeral Chapel in Coeur d’Alene. To share memories or leave condolences, please visit their tribute page at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.