Don V Rodgers

Don Virgil Rodgers of Pompton Plains, NJ and longtime resident of Oakland, NJ, crossed the threshold into his heavenly reward at age 96 on June 2 2023, after suffering a stroke.
Don was born on August 8, 1926 in Sheffield, IL, where he grew up on the family farm. His early life on the farm instilled in him a love of nature and animals, a strong work ethic, and a powerful sense of family and community. He served in the U.S. Navy on the U.S.S. Wisconsin from 1946-47, having been deferred during World War II to work the farm. During leave in New York City, he met the love of his life Edna (Thompson), and they were married in 1949 and settled in New York City where they raised three daughters.
Don worked at IBM at various sites in Manhattan, and moved to Oakland in 1969 when he was transferred to the Franklin Lakes, NJ location. There he could now have the pets and garden he so enjoyed. He made friends easily, and was always quick to lend a hand when anyone needed help. Don loved all sports, especially golf, which he played into his 80s. He enjoyed coaching basketball and playing softball in his younger years, was a loyal Cubs fan for 90+ years and an avid follower of baseball, football, and track and field from his recliner as he grew older. As a resident of the Cedar Crest community, he was involved in many activities, including a memoir writing class, and playing pool, Wii golf, and cribbage.
Don was predeceased by his beloved wife, Edna, as well as his eldest daughter, Donna Frankovits. He is survived and sorely missed by loving family: daughters Nancy Rodgers of Oakland, NJ and Kathy Pettit (George Brunjes) of Warwick, NY; grandchildren Lauren Frankovits of Garnerville, NY, Beth Dodin (Chris) of Goshen, NY, Matthew Halliwell (Laura) of Bloomingdale, NJ, Christopher Rodgers (Lisa Björklund) of Tulsa, OK, and Claire Natusch (Jimmie) of Loudon, NH; and great-grandchildren Alexus Stamoularas, Gianna, Aubrey and Kayden Shears, James Dodin, Aiden Luchka, James Natusch, and Willow Rodgers, who is soon to be with us. His loss leaves a tremendous hole in all of our hearts and lives.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, June 10 at 1:30 PM in the Interfaith Chapel at Cedar Crest in Pompton Plains, NJ. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.