Dr. Roger Kerr ran track at the University of Iowa. In 1962, Roger was part of the mile relay team that won the 1962 Big Ten title. He also finished third in the 440-yard dash at the USA Track & Field Championships. He captained the 1963 track team while winning the Big Ten titles in the 600-yard dash indoors and the 660-yard dash outdoors, setting conference records in both races. He was also part of the mile relay teams that won both the indoors and outdoors Big Ten titles, which set conference records. 

After earning his bachelor's degree from the University of Iowa in 1963, Roger began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at the University of Iowa while earning a master's degree in physical education in 1965. 

After earning his master's degree, he became the head track and cross country coach at the University of Evansville (Ind.) for two years before going to Purdue University in 1967 as the head cross country and assistant track coach. While at Purdue, Roger earned a PhD in Education Administration from the university. 

In 1973, he was named the head cross country and track coach at Illinois State University. And, in 1977, he began coaching at Arizona State University. 

After coaching at Arizona State University, Roger spent time with the United States Olympic Committee and traveling around the world visiting all continents except Antarctica while working at different Summer Olympics, Winter Olympics, Pan American Games, World University Games, and other events. 

He eventually returned to coaching at Middle Tennessee State University in 1997, where he stayed until retirement.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents Leonard and Rose, a sister, and two brothers. 

Roger is survived by his three sons, five granddaughters, a grandson, two brothers, and many nieces and nephews. 

He is also survived by his extended family and friends and many others including former teammates and all the athletes he coached in his lifetime. 

The first memorial service was held February 13, 2025. A final memorial service will be held in Wapello, IA, at a future date.