Donald W. Rogers

Donald W. Rogers

Donald W. Rogers, well known bass player, died peacefully on September 3rd, 2012. He was born April 15, 1930 in Seattle, WA, the son of John and Alice Rogers. Don was raised in Seattle and graduated from Queen Anne High School.

At the age of 20 Don learned to play the bass and never put it down. He played with great jazz musicians from Seattle to Las Vegas. Don played with many but his favorites to play with were Lucy Johnson, Paul West and Bud Williams.

From family to friends and countless others Don has been entertaining for over 60 years. Not only with his incredible bass playing, but with his humor and wit. Don always had a new joke to tell clean and dirty alike. He was a comedian and could tell you stories like no other. His ability to make people laugh will be missed. But remembered as they are told by those who have been blessed to hear them.

He was a life member of the local 76 Seattle Musicians Union. Owning a successful tavern and beer distributor, Don retired as a wholesale representative for many well-known wine and beer distributors in Seattle.

Don enjoyed riding motorcycles and traveling, but his passion was for his radios. He was a licensed ham operator and chatted with people all over the world.

Don loved his music but his greatest love was his wife of 54 years, Charlotte. They built a beautiful life together. Raising two wonderful sons, John and David. He loved being grandpa to Tony, Aaren, Jared and Sam, and was overjoyed with birth of his Great Grandson, Little Rowdy. He was dearly loved and will be missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

A celebration of Don's life will take place at the Kirkland Eagles on September 30 from 1-5 pm. Contributions in his honor can be made to any organization that supports Alzheimer's.