Obituary of Theron E. Rogers
Theron E. (“T.E.”) Rogers, 93, son of the late Leon W. and Anna (Tiffany) Rogers, passed away Monday, February 26, 2018.
T.E. was predeceased by his beloved wife, Helen. He was also predeceased by his brother, Dale Rogers, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Marian and Harry Walters, Jean and Eugene Albrecht, Nancy Clark, Denise Rogers, and son-in-law, Orlando Velasquez.
He is survived by his daughter, Nancy Lee Velasquez, son and daughter-in-law, Clark and Gayle Rogers, grandchildren, Tyler Bowers (Mary Hunt) and Jamie (Jason) Munn, great-grandsons, Landon and Liam Munn, along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
T.E. was a World War II veteran, having enlisted in the United States Navy upon graduation from Athens High School in 1942. He was stationed on the aircraft carrier, the USS Sitkoh Bay, serving in the Asiatic Pacific, and achieved the rank of Aviation Machinist’s Mate Third Class. He shared memories of enduring a typhoon while on the carrier.
Following his honorable discharge in March 1946, Theron attended Eckels Embalming School in Philadelphia. He was employed as a mortician in Niagara Falls, as well as the accompanying furniture store, and Bell Helicopter. In 1956, he moved back to the Valley and became employed by IBM Owego, where he was employed until his retirement at age 60. After serving as a consultant at IBM for several years, T.E. obtained his electrical contractor's license. He worked as an electrician, both independently and with Clark and his partner, Jamie Rosenberger’s, company, Lonestar Builders, Inc., sharing his wealth of knowledge/experience and finesse with all who worked with them.
Theron loved spending time in the summer at the family cottage on Lake Ontario. He was an avid fisherman and loved being on the water. He hosted many family and friends for fun-filled weekends at "the lake." There were many 'hot' card games of Pitch in the evenings. He loved Penn State football and could be found most Friday nights in the fall at Athens High School football games. His many talents also included home remodeling. Most rooms in his home were remodeled at least twice. Theron was a great reader, especially of spy thrillers. His greatest talent, though, was the love and kindness he shared with others. Theron took exceptional care of his wife, Helen, until her death. His children knew Dad could be counted on for advice and support.
The family would like to extend their sincere and heartfelt thank yous to all who helped us care for Theron in the past few years, especially the staff of 1 East at the Bradford County Manor. Their care and compassion during his time on their unit brought comfort to him and his family.
A Memorial Service will be held at Jay E. Lowery Funeral Home, 225 South Main St., Athens, on March 10, 2018 at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Linda Rogers officiating. Burial will follow the service at the Tioga Point Cemetery where Theron and his beloved wife, Helen will be laid to rest together.
Memorial donations may be made in Theron's name to the Spalding Memorial Library, 724 S. Main Street, Athens, PA 18810, Disabled American Veterans' Organization, or a charity of one’s choice.
