Ronald Owen Rogers, age 78, passed peacefully in his sleep the evening of Friday, December 19, 2014, surrounded by the family who loved him dearly. Born August 17, 1936 in Indianapolis to John and Mabel Rogers, he married his high-school sweetheart, Janice Louise Kapp on July 15th, 1956 and she survives.
Ron graduated from George Washington High School where he was sports editor of the school newspaper, and continued to be an active member of the alumni association throughout his life. He was a career employee of Ford Motor Assembly Plant in Indianapolis, working 43 years before retiring in 2001. He was both a 50 year Mason and member of the Murat Shrine. A tireless volunteer, Ron was a leading member of the Warren Central Dad's Club and organized the concessions for thousands of sporting events for over 30 years beginning in the early 70's. He was also active with his church, where he devoted numerous summers to assisting with youth camps. Ron loved to garden and was an also avid walker, participating in mini-marathons and hundreds of walks over the years. He completed his last 5k race in October, where he finished first in his age group.
Ron loved his family above all; was a friend to everyone he ever met; a forever fan of Purdue football; and a proud grandfather at the many sporting and musical events of his beloved grandchildren. Ron and Janice enjoyed traveling in retirement, wintering in Florida, cruising the open waters, and visiting Europe, Great Britain, and Australia in recent years.
Ron and Janice made the Barrington of Carmel home in 2013, where Ron managed the facility Library and assisted with the Masterpiece Living Program, welcoming many new friends to their home. A member of Southport Presbyterian church, Ron and Janice recently began attending St. Luke's United Methodist church.
In addition to his wife of 58 years, Ron is survived by daughters Laura Walters of Indianapolis and Becky (Greg) Finch of Carmel; son Chris of Portsmouth, New Hampshire; and grandchildren Jessica (Steve) Brown of Fishers; Nick Walters of Indianapolis; John Finch of Ft. Worth, Texas; Luke, Abby and Ashley Rogers of Jasper, Indiana.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation and service will take place Tuesday, December 23rd at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 100 W. 86th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana. Visitation will take place from 10:00 – 11:30, and a service open to everyone will immediately follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The American Cancer Society, The American Heart Association, or St. Luke's Methodist Church.