William Samuel Rogers' Obituary
William Samuel Rogers, age 84, of Grand Haven passed away Monday, July 24, 2017, at The Lena and Fred Meijer Heart Center in Grand Rapids. He was born May 29, 1933, in Sparta, MI to Charles William and Edna Mae (Scoby) Rogers, and he married Marilyn Jean Perry on October 24, 1954, at Sparta United Methodist Church. She preceded him in death on December 7, 2007.
Bill studied business at Davenport College, and served his country as a medic in the Army. He worked as Superintendent of the Waste Water Treatment Plant in Sparta until his retirement in 1995. Bill began as a volunteer fireman, which lead to his becoming fire chief, with the Sparta Fire Department. This partnership resulted in 37 years of service with the fire department. He was well known for restoring pedal cars, toy cars, and model trains. He also restored a 1929 Model A Ford and a 1930 Model T Roadster. Bill collected Michigan license plates for the years 1910-1968. He lived to be in his workshop, and had also been a volunteer at North Ottawa Community Hospital from 2007-2015.
He is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Cindi (Hank) McNeil of Rockford; and his son, Bill (Annie) Rogers of Morley; three grandchildren: Bryan Rogers, Kayleigh Rogers, and Sam McNeil. He was preceded in death by his parents.
The funeral service for Bill will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 29, 2017, at the United Methodist Church of the Dunes with Rev. Eldon Eldred officiating with military honors by the Charles A. Conklin American Legion Post # 28 Honor Guard. Friends may meet the family 5-7 p.m. Friday, July 28, at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, The VanZantwick Chapel, and one hour prior to the funeral at church. Interment will be in Lake Forest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions to the United Methodist Church of the Dunes or The Lena and Fred Meijer Heart Center are appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of William?
What’s a lesson you learned from William?
Share a story where William's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with William you’ll never forget.
How did William make you smile?
