Roman Rojtas-Vogelsang, a devoted husband, passionate policy professional, talented musician and chef, and beloved son, brother and friend, passed away unexpectedly. The loss has left his family, partner Sascha Rojtas-Vogelsang, friends, colleagues and the Sacramento community devastated. A service will be held Friday, September 19, 2025, from 5–7 p.m. PT at Price Funeral Chapel, 6335 Sunrise Blvd., Citrus Heights, CA 95610.
Roman worked as a policy analyst and lobbyist at Capitol Advocacy, following earlier roles at Aprea & Company. His first jobs — from crew member at Century 16 Greenback Lane and XD to shift leader at Dutch Bros Coffee and bartender/server at Black Angus Steakhouse — shaped a work ethic that colleagues admired. He studied at Folsom Lake College, attended El Camino Fundamental High School, and later studied political science and economics at Sacramento State, where his interest in California politics blossomed.
Roman’s professional life was defined by curiosity, discipline and a gift for connecting policy to people. Coworkers remember a thoughtful analyst who debated ideas with sharp insight and always had time to mentor others. Outside the office, he poured the same energy into his many passions: crafting complex recipes, experimenting with cocktails, playing guitar and bass, and composing original music. He loved jamming with his father Rick, hosting Rock Band and karaoke nights, and sharing meals with friends and family — famously cooking Thanksgiving for dozens and mastering Beef Wellington at Christmas.
Roman’s personal life was a testament to love and partnership. He and Sascha Rojtas-Vogelsang built a home in Rancho Cordova with their three adored cats — Judy, Bagheera and Hank — and filled it with warmth, style and carefully curated finds. Sascha’s public tribute captures the depth of their bond: they met in 2020, moved in together within months, and celebrated milestones that included closing on their home and an engagement at Mount Washington overlook in Pittsburgh. Though the couple had planned a July 25, 2026 wedding, they wed on September 2, 2025, in the ICU so Roman’s dream of marriage could be fulfilled. Sascha described Roman as his soulmate, a tireless supporter, and “Doobie,” the family nickname he wore with affection.
Friends and family recall Roman’s infectious laugh, encyclopedic curiosity about current events, exacting standards for coffee and lunches, and a joie de vivre expressed through culinary experimentation and music. He saved recipes and cooking apps by the hundreds, treasured Claire Saffitz and Bon Appétit videos, and introduced loved ones to inventive cocktails — the Amaretto Sour among them. His style was distinctive, from Bonobos shirts to Banana Republic suits, and his home reflected both designer taste and playful practicality.
Roman’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from colleagues at Capitol Advocacy, classmates, extended family and the many friends who gathered in his life. Sascha asked for gratitude to those who have offered support and shared intimate memories — from road trips and concerts to quiet evenings solving puzzles and savoring coffee. The loss, he wrote, is a “living hell” of sorrow, but Roman’s influence endures in the meals he made, the music he played, and the love he gave.
Friends, colleagues and community members are invited to attend the service at Price Funeral Chapel on September 19, 2025, 5–7 p.m. PT. In lieu of flowers the family may suggest remembrances to causes meaningful to Roman; details may be shared through the funeral home.
Roman Rojtas-Vogelsang leaves behind a world he helped shape with care, curiosity and compassion. He will be remembered as a problem-solver for his family, a mentor to colleagues, a host who gathered people together, and a partner who loved fiercely. His memory lives on in the stories, recipes, songs and daily rituals—especially a perfectly brewed morning coffee—that will now be treasured by all who loved him.
