Roman Nicholaus Rojtas-Vogelsang

Roman was born on a warm summer day in Sacramento, California, on July 30, 1997, to the most loving parents, Rick and Tabatha Vogelsang. He joined his two sisters, Lauren and Megan, and from the very start, Roman was fiercely loved. As his personality began to bloom, he was affectionately given the nickname Doobie. From day one, Roman's parents and siblings shared a bond with him that went beyond family- they became some of his closest friends, occupying a deeply sacred space in his life.

As Roman grew, so did his love for music, comedy, cooking, and learning- passions that would define his life. Roman had a gift for pairing fine wines with great food, a sharp sense of style, and a deep appreciation for the finer things. But above all, it was Roman’s love for life and humanity that shone the brightest. His laugh could fill a room, and everyone who met him was touched by his gracious heart. Roman brought joy to every gathering, no matter how big or small- he was, as he liked to say, “a whole ass vibe.”

Roman strived for excellence in everything he did. Music ran in his blood and was a passion he shared with his family. He played a variety of instruments and sang his heart out across a polished range of genres. His love for cooking and crafting drinks was self-taught, and he shared that joy with everyone around him. Roman also had a sharp intellect and a deep commitment to social justice. He had big dreams and goals- among them was to live in the Fabulous 40’s with a family he created and ultimately, to become a lobbyist and advocate for the issues he held dear.

He was well on his way to fulfilling those dreams. Roman graduated Magna Cum Laude from California State University, Sacramento with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Economics. He soon began his professional career, first with Aprea & Company as a Legislative Assistant, and then as a Policy Analyst and Lobbyist for Capitol Advocacy. He was admired and respected by his colleagues and regarded as a rising star in public policy.

During his journey, Roman met a kind and generous man, Sascha Rojtas, who became the love of his life and eventually his husband. From the beginning, their love was tender, genuine, and ever-growing. They built a life full of shared dreams, love, and laughter. They became engaged, surrounded by family and friends, bought a home, and embraced life together fully. Roman and Sascha were married on September 2nd at Roman’s ICU bedside- a testament to the meaning of “in sickness and in health” - with loved ones surrounding them both in person and through the gift of modern technology. Though married for only a brief moment, Roman’s love for Sascha was true, real, and unwavering.

Heartbreakingly, Roman’s life was cut short due to sudden and unexpected health complications. Yet even in the most difficult moments, he never gave up or chose the easy road. Roman fought with everything he had, sustained by the love of his parents, close family and friends, who never left his side. His spirit remained strong, even when his body could no longer continue.

Roman’s passing is a heartbreaking loss to all who knew him. He was a brilliant, compassionate, and endlessly curious man whose laughter, sass, and radiant energy lit up every space. He had a rare gift for making people feel seen, valued, and loved. Though his time was far too short, the love, joy, and light he brought to this world will live on in his husband, his family, and his many friends. His memory is a blessing, and his legacy lives on in every heart he touched.

Roman is survived by his devoted husband, Sascha Michael Rojtas-Vogelsang; his loving and devoted parents, Tabatha Kay Vogelsang (Brownlie) and Richard Reginald Vogelsang; and his two older sisters and their families:
●    Lauren Inez Jones (Rocheleau) and husband Adam Cristian Jones, with sons Aiden Cristian Jones, Gaven Michael Robert Jones, and Presten Fischer Jones
●    Megan Alexis Weatherly (Vogelsang) and husband Clayton Robert Weatherly, with children Reagan Alexis Weatherly and Clyde River Weatherly

He is also survived by:
●    His aunt Tonya Brownlie (sister of Tabatha), with children Jordan Brownlie and Brandon Hazlett
●    His grandmother, Natalia Francesa Vogelsang (Gonero)
●    His aunts, uncles, and cousins:
○    Paul Vogelsang, with children Marcell Vogelsang and Noah Vogelsang
○    Lisa Alvarez (Vogelsang) and husband Steve Alvarez, with children Isaiah Alvarez, Natalia Alvarez, and Jacob Alvarez

Roman’s cherished circle of close friends include Chris Zgraggen, Kaley Nelson, Matthew Stelmaszczyk, John Carter, Ashley Steiner, & Natalie Whitney.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Reginald Vogelsang, Willie May Gallegos (Norwood), and Pedro Julian Gallegos; his uncle Thomas Vaughn Hazlett; and beloved pets Gracie the Golden Retriever, Gracie Girl the Corgi, Mooch, and Mogli.

Friends and family are invited to attend a Memorial Service on Friday, September 19, 2025 at 6:15pm at the DoubleTree By Hilton Sacramento, Rooms: Capitol Salon C and D, 2001 Point West Way, Sacramento, CA  95815.

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