Charles C. Rohrer

Our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Charles C. Rohrer, age 81, died Dec. 28, 2008, due to complications of Alzheimer's disease. He was surrounded by his loving family and the caring and devoted staff in the Cottage at Highgate Senior Living.

"Charlie" was born on Feb. 25, 1927, in Rugby, N.D., the youngest of 13 children to Charles and Katie Rohrer.

Charles was married to Jean, his loving wife of 59 years. They met as students at Minot (N.D.) State University. After both teaching in Underwood, N.D., for two years, they moved to Virginia, where Charles was stationed at Ft. Lee during the Korean Conflict. Two years later, they relocated to Billings, where Charles taught physical education at Garfield and Riverside Junior High schools for 30 years, followed by supervising student teachers for the university system for another 15 years.

He was passionate about his yard work and gardening, and loved to share the fruits of his efforts with neighbors and friends. His generosity and compassionate nature will be greatly missed by all.

For over 50 years, Charles and Jean have been active members of Grace United Methodist Church. He has served as chairman of both the Trustees and Finance Committees and as head usher over the years.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents; eight brothers, Clarence, Samuel, Melvin, Paul, Cecil, Merle, Lynn and Leonard; four sisters, Ella, Alice, Grace and Florence; and just recently, the unexpected death of youngest daughter Barbara Dawn Clark of Sparks, Nev.

Charles is survived by his wife, Jean; daughters Carol (David) Sperry, Chicago, Debby (Dana) Porter, Casper, Wyo.; and son-in-law Jeff Clark, Sparks. Also surviving are three grandsons, Captain Kyle (Melissa) Porter, Moody AFB, Valdosta, Ga., Dusty Porter and Adam Porter, both of Casper, Wyo.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, Jan. 10, at 1 p.m., at Grace United Methodist Church, located at 1935 Ave. B. If desired, memorial contributions can be made to Grace United Methodist Church.