Richard Neil Rogers' Obituary
On September 13, 2023, Richard Neil Rogers passed on peacefully to be with our Lord at the grand age of 82.Richard, the younger child of the late Walter and Esther (Moore) Rogers, was born on August 12,1941. He grew up in Redford and graduated from Redford Union High School, going on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Ferris, and eventually landing a job with GM as an accountant. His friendly nature and fondness for sporting events made him a great guy to hang around with. He was a fierce fan of Detroit teams, cheering on the Lions, Tigers, Red Wings or Pistons at games whenever time allowed. Meeting Gloria Hajj at the mid-point of his life transformed his focus and they married in January of 1983. She was his beacon and together they started their family. Richard adored his family and made great efforts to be there for his children, following the example of Christ. His dependability and presence could be counted on always. He worked diligently for 30 years and upon retirement was able to travel the world with Gloria, sharing a love of adventure or even taking rides out on the boat together. For the next 31 years, he devoted his life to his family, especially as Paka to his grandchildren. Richard never lost his love for sports, enjoying many games of golf, fantasy football, and Michigan football, and shared that excitement with friends and loved ones. Every year on August 12, he enjoyed a signature Manhattan, reflecting on the years past and looking forward to the coming one. He will be dearly missed. Richard is survived by his bride of 40 years, Gloria; son Jeffrey Neil Rogers (Denise Heins) and their children, Gabby Gilespie and Jace Heins; Daughter, Kerri Elaine Connelly and her children, Eric, Sara, Charles, and Declan Connelly; several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law and loved nieces and nephews along with many cousins. Richard is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Judith Stewart. Per Richard’s wishes, cremation will take place with a service to follow at a later date. Those desiring may direct memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in lieu of flowers.
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