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BORN
1954
DIED
2013
Randall Rogers Obituary
Randy grew up in Denver and spent many memorable times at the family's cabin in Pinecliffe, Colo. Randy attended Thomas Jefferson High School in Denver, Fort Lewis College in Durango, University of Montana, in Missoula, and the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
In 1987, Randy married Liz Peltola on the Hulahula River in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. They have lived in Fairbanks for more than 30 years. Together they raised Teal and Luke, of whom they are very proud of. Family was everything to Randy.
Randy retired from the state Department of Fish and Game and continued his passion and commitment to continue the reintroduction and release of the wood bison into the wilds of Alaska. In past years, Randy was also director of the Northern Alaska Environmental Center.
Randy lived an adventurous life and loved skiing, river rafting and world travels.
Randy is survived by his wife, Liz Peltola; daughter, Teal Rogers, and son, Luke Rogers, all of Fairbanks; sister, Janeann Twelker, her husband, Eric, and their children, Evan and Karl, from Juneau; brothers, Dave Rogers, and his partner, Billy Compton, from Blackhawk, Colo., and Malcolm Rogers and children Tuesday and Madison of Soldotna, and many Peltola relatives from Michigan, including: Louis, Nancy, Erik, Katie, Michael, Karen, Robert Pieti, Polk, Victor, Kerry, Christopher, Eric and Kara.
We are grateful for the help of Dr. Andrew Cox and the wonderful staff at J. Michael Carroll Cancer Center and Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be sent to: Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center/Wood Bison Project, P.O. Box 949, Girdwood, AK 99587, (907-783-2025).
A celebration of Randy's life will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, May 18, 2013, at the UAF Wood Center Ballroom.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Randall Rogers
Dan Herman
May 16, 2014
Thinking fondly of Randy. Wishing Teal and Luke all the best upon their graduations.
Dan & Diana
Mike and Robin Smith
June 26, 2013
Liz, Teal, and Luke,
We were shocked to learn of Randy's recent passing. He was a constant presence at Moose Mountain where we ski patrolled. Our thoughts are with you all.
Hal and Carol Meyer
May 20, 2013
Remembering Randy Rogers is so easy on the mind and the heart. From the early 80's canoe races down the Chena River, the wild and crazy horseshoe tournaments during Golden Days and the basketball leagues to a short stint together as roommates at the “Dump”, they were all great times. We both ended up going our separate ways, building lives and families, always meaning to get together, but as we all know life itself somehow seems to get in the way of our best intentions. Carol and I feel so fortunate though that we had the opportunity to reconnect last summer, enjoying a dinner together with the family - sharing our lives, catching up with stories of family and friends and remembering the good ol' days. And, maybe, just maybe the chance to create new memories by sharing a future raft trip or two together. It was also our first chance getting to know Teal and Luke who have inherited that love for adventure shared by their Mom and Dad. We all laughed so hard together that night. Just thinking of that moment always brings a smile to our faces and a special warmth and connection that friends give to each other forever. Thanks Randy Rogers. See ya on the river!
A favorite poem that fits Randy to a tee!
Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, “Wow, what a ride!”
Randy Rogers in 1980s
Pamela A. Miller
May 17, 2013
Randy was a rock of encouragement when I was a professional wildlife biologist and a great friend. He served the Northern Alaska Environmental Center with humor, great diplomacy and resilience when he was its executive director and extended communication to friends and others alike. He supported Alaska's great wildlands and waters and their values to people during a difficult era for the conservation in the implementation phases of Alaska's newly established and expanded federal parks, refuges, wilderness, recreation and other conservation areas. Even recently he contributed his perspective on pending management plans for lands in our backyard. He is greatly missed as a friend and by the Northern Alaska Environmental Center.
Jen White
May 4, 2013
Randy was, and is, an amazing pillar of strength. His commitment to his family shows bright in the energy he imbued to you. Loving thoughts to all the Rogers family.
May 4, 2013
I met Randy at the Cancer Treatment Center in Fairbanks. He tried hard to stay with his family! He was so proud of them. He will be missed by many - me included.
A. Fields
Grayling-Anvik-Shageluk-Holy Cross Representatives visitng AK Wildlife Conservation
Eugene & Tessiana Paul
May 1, 2013
Our deepest condolences to the family of Randy Rogers. We met him through his work, he was a great advocate for Wood Bison. He truly cared for Rural people and believed in sustainable resources. A very kind- hearted man. Prayers to the family.
Jerry Rawson
April 30, 2013
Liz, Teal and Luke,
I was deeply saddened to learn of Randy's passing and I would like to express to you my sincere sadness and sympathies to you and your family at this difficult time.
I considered Randy a friend, a kind and thoughtful co-worker.
Jerry Rawson
Harry Bader
April 30, 2013
It is with great sadness that I became aware of Randy's death. He stands among the finest in Alaska for his love of our state and his strong sense of professionalism. The greatest testament to Randy, I believe, are the extraordinary children he and Liz have raised together. Luke and Teal are as wonderful as anyone would wish for as a son and a daughter. Patsy and I hold Luke, Teal and Liz in our thoughts and prayers. I am grateful to have been able to call Randy a neighbor and a friend.
just a happy muskox in Nome
John Bunten
April 30, 2013
Liz and Family,
My heart goes out to you all and wishing you all the best during this time.
The Nichols Family, Oct., 2012
Cathy Nichols
April 29, 2013
Dear Liz, Teal and Luke,
You don't know us, but we are part of Nancy's family (married to your bro., Lou). My brothers used to play hoops with Louie whenever they could ages ago! I have kept up (through Nancy & Lou) with Randy's progress over the last couple of years and have said many prayers for him. He was such a brave guy. What a special family you created. I imagine it meant the world to him to take the trips and engage in the activities you and the kids did before he left this earth. I look forward to seeing you one day in Michigan should our paths cross in the future. God bless and keep you all.
April 28, 2013
Liz, Teal and Luke,
So sorry to hear of Randy's passing. We'll always remember his friendly smile and energy for all things fun...mud volleyball, yard ice-rink, grilling on the deck....His spirit lives on in all who were lucky to have known him.
Love and Peace, Pat,Hannah,and Aileen
On To McCarthy
Larry/Judy Halm/Schimer
April 27, 2013
Liz, Teal, Luke & Thor,
I've been putting this off because Randy's passing is just too much to process. I met Randy 40 years ago when we were going to school in Durango, CO. After some early 70's small town party school escapades and adventures (in one of which he came to my rescue when my head caught on fire) he went to Montana but we always stayed in touch on a regular basis.
When he headed to Alaska, I figured it would be like he would be on another planet, but he was always after me to make the trek and visit. Due to my own issues, I never felt I could, but in 2007 he gave me and my wife, Judy, an incredible opportunity to see a little slice of his world that we would have otherwise been unable to do due my physical disabilities.
It's no secret that Randy was an unusually complete & empathetic person, adroitly balancing the many different things he valued so much; family, friends & very good times balanced by significant issues related to his love of the environment and all things wild and free. Alaska was always the place Randy belonged. Randy was like the brother I never had. I'll miss him forever.
Randy had a life that was truly exceptional and well lived. Happy trails, brother.
Teresa Sammis
April 26, 2013
Randy was director of the NAEC when I first moved to Fairbanks in the 80's. I'll always remember his sense of humor. My condolences.
Jeri Forgue
April 26, 2013
Dear Liz, I am at a loss to express how sad I am that you lost your best friend and the love of your life. Through all the years I worked with you, I always admired the strength of your marriage and your commitment to family. I remember laughing so hard that tears were running dowm my face when you told me stories of your travel and home experiences with Randy. I am crying now as I write this. My heart goes out to you and the rest of the family. Jeri
mike dean
April 25, 2013
randy it was good to see you when you came to colorado my prayers are with you and your family from your cousin mike dean
Steve DuBois
April 25, 2013
Liz, Teal, and Luke, I am so sorry for your loss of Randy. I had the privilege of working with Randy for a number of years at Alaska Fish and Game, and although I never met you, I feel that I know each of you because he talked about you so often. I was the area biologist in Delta Junction and Randy made many trips to Delta, as you know, where he made invaluable contributions to planning Delta bison management issues. During his visits to Delta, Randy developed a wide circle of friends and acquaintances here that valued him for his professional and wise advice and we all valued him as a friend as well. One of my goals in retirement was to take a float trip with Randy on some Alaskan river because I know he loved the rivers and we talked about making a trip together after we retired. You know better than I do, but I know he fought his cancer as hard as he could, in part so he could be with you as long as possible. I'm glad I got to spend the time with him that I did. He is greatly missed.
Bob Sutherland
April 25, 2013
Randy Rogers was a good friend of mine and I appreciated his company, wisdom and fun times. My condolences to Liz, Luke and Teal who had a great companion and father. we lost a good one.
Tamara Johnston
April 25, 2013
I worked with Randy as part of his admin support staff, and knew him as a kind dedicated person who was passionate about his work and loves and friends. We will miss him!
April 24, 2013
Liz, Teal, Luke,
I am at a loss of words to express my joy of being Randy's friend. The times we shared, the people he introduced me to, and the causes he championed will always inspire me. I can only think that now, The Wrangell Ram and The White Buffalo are roaming the Cosmos together.
Love and Aloha,
Joe Baby
Randy in the "wood bison chute"; June, 2011
Kerry Howard
April 24, 2013
I knew Randy as a work colleague and a friend. I'll always remember his humor, his gentle presence, and his kindness. During the past few years he emerged as a hero of courage and well-being. "In the end, only three things matter: how much you loved, how gently you lived, and how gracefully you let go of things not meant for you."--Buddha Surely Randy excelled on all three. I shall miss you my friend....and I send sincerest condolences to his family...
BJ and Sean Aldrich
April 24, 2013
We got to know Randy and Liz primarily through Luke's hockey and when Luke came to stay with us during Randy's surgery in Seattle. Luke talked a lot about his Dad and we could see how close the two of them were and what a great Dad Randy was. We know Randy's spirit will live on through his wonderful children, Luke and Teal and his wife, Liz. Our thoughts are with you all during this time.
Randy with wood bison skull
Rita St. Louis
April 24, 2013
I was one of the very fortunate people whose path crossed that of Randy's. In that short time, he taught me a lot. Professionally, one could not find a more honest person, a clearer thinker, harder worker, and master compromiser for the good of all than Randy. Randy always kept the "big picture" in mind.
Personally, it was an honor to call Randy "friend." I am a better person for having known him. He was a good person, and good to his friends. He loved his family and he shared his pride in them in the fun ways that we all love when we hear about what the family is up to. Liz was his rock, and his children were his wings—that was always so very clear and so great to see.
Randy will be missed more than most because he cut such a wide, good swath just in his everyday life of being the unique person he was.
I am glad that his pain is over. My love and prayers to to Liz, Teal, and Luke. I know you will all carry on his good work.
Lovingly, Rita St. Louis
Daniel Herman
April 23, 2013
Dear Liz, Teal, and Luke,
Although we had the opportunity to visit with Randy only a few times when he came to Seattle for treatment, he inspired us with his welcoming spirit, unabashed optimism, and quiet determination. One thing we were certain about after visiting him was that he thought the world of his family and would meet any challenge to remain in their presence! He inspires us to live more impassioned and adventurous lives. We visited the Wood Bison last May and it is easy to envision Randy's spirit wandering amongst these majestic creatures forever.
With deepest sympathy,
Dan Herman and Diana Frawley
Lary Sutton
April 23, 2013
Liz, Teal and Luke, I'm so sorry for your loss, it is a loss for all of us. Randy was such a great friend and all around human being. He did me the honor of being my Best Man at my wedding in 1993. His connection to, and love for wild places was so strong. I know we'll think of him as we watch the water flow in a river, or see hawks soaring on the thermals, or hear a wolf howl. Rest In Peace my brother!
Uncle Bob
April 23, 2013
Liz, Teal, and Luke:
We were very saddened to hear of Randy's passing and our prayers and hearts go out to all of you. Along the Path of Life we meet many people and we cherish the fact that we not only meet Randy, but knew him. He is a Wonderful Man, a Great Father, a Tremendous Husband, and an Outstanding Friend. A person could not ask for a better person to meet and know along that path than Randy. He lives on in our hearts and He is most certainly looking after all of you from above.
UB, Nancy, and Justin
Brehan Kohl
April 23, 2013
My thoughts are with you and your family. I hope you find comfort in your memories and life with your husband and father.
Ed Meggert
April 23, 2013
Liz and Family,
Words fail me at your loss. All i can say is that of all the folks i worked with over the years I missed Randy the most. He was one of the few real quality people I've ever known. We'll all miss him. sincerely. Ed
Nancy Tarnai
April 23, 2013
I have never seen a more devoted father to his children. And Randy was a good sport in so many ways! So sorry for this huge loss. Hugs to Liz, Teal, Luke & Thor.
April 23, 2013
Much too young to be gone, my deepest condolence, may God the hearer of prayer grant courage and comfort.(Psalms 65:2)
April 23, 2013
Hi we are so sorry for your loss of Randy. His love for life and you lives on in you. Love Kathy & Alison
Cindy Alford
April 22, 2013
Liz, Teal and Luke so sorry to hear of Randy's passing. May God bless you all. Sincerely, Cindy & Harrison
Bob Pieti
April 22, 2013
Randy was a friend to who ever crossed paths with him, be it animal or people. He will truly be missed and will always remain in our thoughts. He will be missed at the BBQ grill while listening to his stories about his travels.
Bother-in-law
Bob Pieti
April 22, 2013
Randy was a friend to all who crossed paths with him, be it animal or people. He surely will be missed and always in our thoughts. He will be missed at the BBQ grill too.
Brother-in law
Mike & Kelly Miller
April 22, 2013
Randy is undoubtedly one of finest people we have ever met. The impression he left on everyone here at the wildlife center will always remain a part of us. The wood bison he loved will be an eternal legacy to his dedication to wildlife conservation. The wood bison program proceeds with out him, but now for him as we will continue his work.
Frank Borecki
April 22, 2013
So very sad to hear that Randy's gone. He was so positive and cheerful. We had drifted into different circles over the years, but he was a real friend and a wonderful person. My heart goes out to Liz, Teal, and Luke
Tony and Barb Benedict
April 22, 2013
Liz and Family everywhere. Barb and I are saddened to hear of your loss. We only knew Randy 1/10,000 as much as you guys, but what we saw and heard was so very special. He always welcomed us at KP's summer party like we were one of the family. He shared so many wonderful stories of Colorado, Alaska and of his many activities that we felt part of his 'bigger than life' world. He will be missed by us. Our thoughts and prayers are with you guys. Yours,
Amy Vaclavik
April 22, 2013
Dear Liz, Teal & Luke - In the memories you cherish may you find peace. All my love, Amy (Lucas)
Patti Wightman
April 22, 2013
Liz, Luke, and Teal: I am so sad to hear of your loss. I liked Randy so much. He was so courageous!
Vic and Kerry Peltola
April 22, 2013
Vic, Kerry, Chris, Eric and Kara Peltola will deeply miss our brother in law and our Uncle Randy. The many things he did in life were courageous and that carried into his fight with cancer. The cancer only took his worldly body but not his mind, heart and spirit. He will always be with us. What a great man, father and husband.
Debbie Fox
April 21, 2013
It was truly an honor to have known, Randy. Having been one of his nurses in the chemo room, I know we would look for each other and just update each other on life. I loved his bison stories. Esp about the bison kicking a co-worker, he happened NOT to have been there at that particular moment. Amongst all that he was going thru, he would come for his visits, and we would just talk. He will be missed.
April 21, 2013
Randy: You will always remain with us in our hearts and thoughts. You were always
great to share our vacation time with at Lake Michigan. You fought the fight with your illness and were a strong person.We will take care of your family as much as we can. We LOVE YOU FOREVER.
Nancy & Lou
April 21, 2013
Randy the cobbler-making his daughters slippers
April 21, 2013
Northern Lights above the Rogers homestead, March, 17, 2013
Karen Peltola
April 21, 2013
Randy was the best brother-in-law anyone could have asked for. His dedication and love of his immediate and extended family members, is ever present in our hearts. Fond memories of him will always bring a smile and comfort. I will always know he is watching over those he loved, when the sky is filled with firey color from the Aurora Borealis. We love and miss him!
Daughter, Teal and Randy at his Retirement Party from ADF&G
Teal Rogers
April 21, 2013
Steve Ulvi
April 21, 2013
I am so glad that I had a chance to reconnect with Randy while he was in Seattle for treatment. He still exuded the warmth, humor, bright mind and positive attitude of the Randy I knew and admired in the 1990s and early 2000s. He will be remembered as being one of those all around good guys who made a difference. We both worked in controversial jobs in different agencies and I saw him as one of the fairest, dedicated and open- minded people in the swirling cross-currents of public land and wildlife management issues. He lived life fully. And embraced family completely. I will miss him for a long time.... our thoughts are with you Liz, Teal and Luke
Lynette Roberts
April 21, 2013
We are so saddened by Randy's passing. He was such a good guy, and a stellar advocate for Alaska's wildlife and environment. A huge loss for all of us.
Laura McCarthy
April 21, 2013
My thoughts are with the Rogers family during this difficult time. I was blessed to have worked with and known Randy. He truly loved his family and spoke highly of them and their accomplishments through the years. His positive spirit is missed! RIP Randy!
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