Rick Rogers

PAXTON - Rick A. Rogers, 74, of Paxton, a Fisher High School graduate of 1970, passed away at home on Monday, Oct. 6, 2025.

He was the son of Ivan and Darlene (Hitchins) Rogers. On June 15, 1971, he was joined in marriage to the love of his life, Debra Elliott.

A lifelong farmer, Rick devoted himself to the land, his community and his steadfast Christian faith. In 1984, he proudly co-hosted the Farm Progress Show alongside Keith, Nelson, Rogers and Sepp Farms in Fisher. Their collective expertise and tireless dedication to agriculture earned them the respect of generations. The event stood as a powerful reflection of Rick's leadership and his deep passion for farming innovation.

Rick was also a gifted carpenter, known for taking on projects of every size with humility and heart. Whether building a barn or crafting a simple shelf, his work was marked by character, strength and resilience - qualities that reflected the man himself.

His commitment to community ran deep, Rick served for many years on the Fisher Farmers Grain and Coal board, helping guide local agricultural efforts with wisdom and integrity. He was also a dedicated church trustee, where his faith and service touched countless lives.

Rick will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous spirit and the legacy he built with his hands and heart. He leaves behind a community enriched by his presence and a family proud of the life he lived.

Rick treasured his friendship and travel buddies, Lyle and Lena. He cherished bus trips to Branson with Deb, especially to see plays and musicals. He also loved leisurely country drives, often joking about "checking rain gauges." And he purposely avoided taking the same route twice. Fishing trips with family and friends were another favorite pastime. A passionate Illini fan, Rick especially looked forward to the spirited matchups against Purdue. Above all, he enjoyed watching sports - particularly of the ones he knew and loved. You could always count on him to be in the stands.

A proud "Poppy" to Kylie, Emma, Blake and Brody, he always had a story and smile to share about their sports and achievements in life. They could do no wrong in Poppy's eyes.

Survivors include his wife, Deb Rogers; aunts, Doris Burnison, Charlotte Hitchins, Vera Lee, Loretta Chaney and Marian Rodgers; uncle, Leonard Rogers; siblings, Sandy Matheny, Ron (Jill) Rogers, Larry Rogers, Lisa (Kevin) Lawrence and Lynn (Stacey) Rogers; and several nieces and nephews. His children are Michelle Carmien, Amy (Kevin) Terven and Lucas (Valerie) Rogers. His grandchildren are Kylie Terven, Emma Carmien, Blake Terven and Brody Carmien.

He was preceded in death by both parents, Ivan and Darlene Rogers; his sister-in-law, Vicki Rogers; and brothers-in-law, John Heiser and Matt Sullivan.

Donations in his honor can be made to the Sangamon Valley fire department or the Seek and Find Ministries Chapel Cafe.