Obituary of Gerard Rogers

With sadness, but with gratitude for a life well lived, the family of Gerry Rogers, husband of 55 years to Mary Lou (Howard) Rogers, announce his passing on Monday, April 9, 2018 at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Born October 2, 1940, he was a son of the late Bernard and Nita (Ekstrom) Rogers. Gerry was a much loved and respected teacher, who taught for many years at Millidgeville North High School and Saint John Vocational School. He always enjoyed meeting with former students and catching up on their lives, often keeping his wife and children waiting as he talked at length. He had a great interest and talent for music, and was the owner of Instrument Repair Service, repairing and renting instruments to many young students across the province. He created beautiful treasures for his family with his excellent woodworking skills, and was often called upon to assist with projects and repairs big or small. Kennebecasis Island was always dear to his heart, and throughout his life he spent many happy hours at "the camp", first with his parents and siblings and later with his wife, children and grandchildren and the large group of beloved nieces, nephews and friends. All were welcomed at "the camp". Most of all, Gerry was dedicated to his family and loved to host big family dinners and gatherings. He had an amazing dry wit and was able to see the humour in any situation. He was a grandfather beyond compare, and had a special bond and relationship with each of his grandchildren. He was dearly loved and will be greatly missed. In addition to his loving wife, Mary Lou, Gerry is survived by their children: Gerry Rogers (Shannon Westlake), Connie O’Brien (David), Richard Rogers (Christine), Tim Rogers (Erika), Louise Kinney, and Lisa Rogers (Sheena); grandchildren: Patrick, Laura, and Julia O’Brien, Katey, Sarah, and Ryan Kinney, Maddy Rogers, and Matthew and Audrey Rogers; brother, Bernard Rogers; brother-in-law, Edward Delaney; sister-in-law, Lucille Rogers; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sisters: Berneata, Joy, Carol, Marney, and Gertrude; and brothers, Louis and David. The family would like to thank the amazing staff of Extra Mural, 3DS, and 3BN, Colleen Chisholm R.N., Christine Rogers R.T.N.M., Dr. Thornhill, Dr. Reiman, Dr. Wildish, Dr. Thompson, and Dr. Greer for their kindness and compassion. Gerry was blessed to have such exemplary care. Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424), with visiting on Thursday, April 12, 2018 from 2 pm to 8 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, April 13, 2018 at 10 am from St. Peter’s Church, 50 Clarendon Street. Interment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery. Reception to follow at Brenan’s Bay View Funeral Home, 1461 Manawagonish Road. For those who wish, remembrances to The Saint John Regional Hospital Foundation or to the charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family.