Roger Ray Teply, age 83, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026. He was born on August 20th, 1942, in Champion, Nebraska, to John and Opal (Lovitt) Teply.

Roger grew up working on the family farm, where he learned the value of hard work, something that defined him for the rest of his life.

In 1977, at the age of 34, Roger moved his family to Anchorage Alaska, where he immediately went to work driving a semi-truck for a gas and oil company. It didn't take long for him to realize he wasn't meant to work for someone else. Roger wanted to build something of his own.

He founded his own trucking company called Empire Leasing, purchased his own trucks and trailers and began hauling freight to Prudhoe Bay and many other destinations throughout the state of Alaska. His work ethic was unmatched. Roger loved to work, and never tired of the job. He gave 100% to everything he did. He expected the same dedication from those around him and was widely respected for his determination, responsibility, and grit.

For many years, Roger enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time in the Alaska wilderness, but his true passion was working, and building his business. He was a man's man-, stubborn in the best way, and fun to be around. Roger wasn't one too openly show emotions, but you always knew where you stood with him- there was no gray area. He was also a true MacGyver, able to fix just about anything and never backing down from a challenge.

After many years of running a successful trucking company in Alaska, he decided to move back down to the family farm. When asked, why move back to Nebraska? He would simply say he liked it better than any place he'd ever been. In 1996 Roger found his partner for life in one Judy Friar. Together, Roger and Judy started a new business venture they called Champion Transportation. Through the years, Roger would haul anything from Cattle to corn and everything in between.

He drove trucks on the far north ice roads of Alaska to the Florida Everglades. He crossed the United States more times than he could probably remember. He lived his whole life exactly how he wanted to without apologies.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, John and Opal Teply.

He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years Judy Teply, his children Roger Dean Teply, Jena Gavora, and Jippi Milner, and his stepson Shawn Devore. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Nick and Cali Gavora, Canyon Teply, Trey Milner, Destyn Milner, Kadyn Schleck and Jerzee Milner; his great grandchildren, Sumner, Tatum Sawyer, Crew and Connor Milner, and Henrik and Ella Gavora. Roger is also survived by his brothers, Marvin.Teply and Rick Teply and his sister Colleen, Mumford.

Roger will be remembered for his strength, Independence, work ethic, and the lasting legacy he built through hard work and determination.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Champion Community Center on Monday, February 9 at 10:00 am.