Roger Alan Haines
Roger Alan Haines passed away on January 12, 2026, at the age of 87.
Roger was born on July 27, 1938, in Yakima, Washington, to Harold and Ethel Haines. He grew up as the son of a military officer, alongside his sister, Janet. His early childhood was shaped by frequent moves to military bases, including time spent living in Greece, experiences that fostered his lifelong curiosity, adaptability, and love of history.
At the age of 15, Roger arrived in Santa Barbara, California, in 1953. He graduated as a Don from Santa Barbara High School in 1956, where he was actively involved in ROTC and developed a passion for hot rods. After high school, he joined the California National Guard and later enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, completing his service prior to the Vietnam War.
In September 1960, Roger met the love of his life, Nancy(Nikki) Wood Gorham. They were married on August 13, 1967, and together built a life rooted in independence, creativity, and hard work. The couple moved to the mountains above Santa Barbara, settling in the community of Painted Cave, where Roger purchased raw land and began the long, hands-on process of pioneering it into a family home.
Roger and Nikki raised two sons: Nathaniel Jason Haines, born April 21, 1969, and Thaddeus Sage Haines, born June 24, 1971. Roger continued shaping both his land and his family life while working as a tree trimmer, plumber, and self-described guerrilla farmer.
Known as an excellent storyteller and true raconteur, Roger had a gift for bringing history and personal adventures vividly to life. He loved camping and hiking, mule packing in the Sierra Nevada with friends, riding motorcycles, and studying history. He was a proud member of E Clampus Vitus and cherished the camaraderie and lore that came with it.
Roger is survived by his wife, Nikki, his sons, Jason and Thaddeus; and his grandsons, Thorin, Getty, and Canyon.
Roger will be remembered for his independence, craftsmanship, humor, and deep appreciation for both the natural world and the stories of the past.
A memorial service will be held on February 19, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at the Santa Barbara Carriage Museum.
