Ralph William Rogers

Ralph William Rogers Jr., a dedicated family man, proud veteran, and long-time resident of Akron, Colorado passed away peacefully November 3, 2025 in his home at the age of 93 years. He was known for his generous, loving, and kind spirit toward everyone, whether they were strangers or lifelong friends. He always had a smile and loved his family very much.

Ralph William Rogers Jr. was born July 1, 1932 to Marcella (Engle) Rogers in Haxtun, Colorado. Shortly after his two brothers Arthur (Bitsy) and Bill were born. The family moved to Sterling, Colorado where his brother Robert (Bob) was born. After a move to Oak Creek the youngest brother Jack was born. After the death of Ralph Rogers Sr., Ralph's mother married Robert (Bob) Viele and to this marriage his cherished little sister Ginger Viele (Barnes) was born.

Ralph began his schooling at a catholic school in Sterling, Colorado. He loved learning and was greatly disappointed when the family's move to Oak Creek, Colorado prevented him from entering high school, as he had to go to work to help support his family.

At the age of eighteen Ralph enlisted in the United States Navy. Ralph served two tours in the United States Navy from 1950 to 1954 and from 1957 to 1961. Through his first tour, Ralph was stationed on the USS Dixie, and through his second tour Ralph was stationed on the USS Condor. During his time in the US Navy, he traveled extensively, with assignments in Okinawa, Midway, Guam, China, Japan, Hong Kong, and Korea. In-between his two tours 1954 to 1957 Ralph worked for the Railroad and was a door-to-door sales men for kitchen wear.

On October 23, 1960 Ralph married the love of his life DaVena Ann (Lane) Rogers in Oak Creek, Colorado. Soon after their marriage, they started their family welcoming their son, Scott Alan in August 1962, and daughters, Lori Ann in July 1963, Susan Elaine in January 1966, and Tammy Kay in April 1970.

In 1966 Ralph began his career with the Colorado Department of Transportation in Craig, Colorado as a road maintenance worker. He later transferred to Yampa, Colorado in the same position. In August 1970 Ralph was promoted to Senior Highway Maintenance Worker (M-2) and he relocated to Anton, Colorado where he served the duration of his 28 years of service to the State of Colorado Department of Transportation. While in Anton, Colorado, Ralph also worked various side jobs for farmers and ranchers. Plowing fields, helping during wheat harvest, and whatever else they may have needed his help with. After his retirement from the State of Colorado Department of Transportation Ralph and DaVena moved to Akron, Colorado to be closer to their grandkids. Ralph was never a man that stayed idol for long, and loved anything the kept him busy, so after his retirement he started working for Akron Ready Mix, he also drove the school bus for Akron Headstart, and worked in the kitchen at the Crestwood Cafe.

Ralph was dedicated member of the VFW post 8064 in Akron, Colorado. He served as District Commander for many years, and called bingo every Wednesday night. He took on these tasks plus many more without hesitation.

In addition to his strong work ethic and community commitment Ralph was a talented musician, he loved to play guitar and sing often entertaining family and friends alongside his brothers Bill, Bob and Jack.

Ralph is survived by his beloved wife DaVena Rogers, and their daughters Tammy Rogers, and Susan Kraich (Mitch). He is also survived by his grandchildren Bill Kraich (Jana), Adam Kraich (Zalisha), Eric Conner (Cassie), Desiree Conner (Lorenzo), Amber Kessinger (Shaquille), Cody Kessinger and Raven Conner (Cierra) Great grandchildren: Anya, Corinne, Shelby, Collin, Olivia, Joseph, Jace, Kenzley, AceLynn, Zendaya, Phoenix, and Elijah. Additionally, Ralph is survived by his brother Robert Rogers (Deloras), his sister Ginger Viele Barnes (Tom), and numerous nieces' and nephews'.

Ralph was preceded in passing by his son Scott Allen Rogers, daughter Lori Ann Rogers Conner (Rick) great granddaughter Aleigha Rae, his parents Marcella Engle Viele, his step father Robert Viele, his brothers William (Bill) Rogers (Connie and Clara), Arthur (Bitsy) Rogers, Jack Rogers, and son-in-law Paul Hulkovich III.

We Love you and miss you Ralph

A celebration of Ralphs life will be held at the Washington County Event Center on Thursday, November 13th 2025 at 11:00 am. Because of his love for the VFW, memorial contributions can be made to the Akron VFW