Fred A. Rogers

Fred Arthur Rogers was born on April 13, 1924 and passed away November 4, 2010 of natural causes. Fred was born in Spokane to William and Elizabeth Rogers. He grew up in Spokane and attended John Rogers High School. He enlisted into the United States Army on December 13, 1945 and was honorably discharged on June 10, 1947 as a Private T/S Machinist. Fred owned and operated a number of businesses throughout his life which included the Paragon Restaurant on N. Division, The Pine Bowl bowling alley on E. Sprague, Blessings Tavern on E. Trent, HCR Ranch in the Spokane Valley and Valley Machine Shop on N. Flora. For most of his life he farmed over 1, 000 acres, raising certified and registered Kentucky bluegrass, wheat, barley and oats. He also operated Valley Machine Shop where he built Chevrolet racing engines and custom parts for many well known racers regionally and nationally. His involvement with stock cars from the 50’s through the 90’s and hydroplanes from the 50’s through the 70’s was a large part of his enjoyment and pride. In retirement he developed Woodland Hills Estates in Otis Orchards on land which he previously farmed. Fred married the love of his life, Lois I. Schultz on June 25, 1950. They met on a blind date on April 19, 1948 while Lois was attending Sacred Heart School of Nursing. They were together for over 60 years. They both raised three successful children in the Spokane Valley and all continue to reside there. He is survived by his wife Lois Rogers, sons Kevin (Becky) Rogers, Kirk (Stacey) Rogers, and daughter Karen (Tom) Gladden; four grandchildren, Mackensie, Jason, Bryan and Brandon; one step-grandchild, Tera; three great-grandchildren, Braden, Kicea and Camden. He is also survived by brother-in-law Robert (Vivian) Schultz; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Extended family includes Doug Lopes, Janet Wimberley and her three children Jessica, Jodi and Julie, as well as many numerous friends. Fred was preceded in death by his two sisters, Millie Thorvaldson (2005) and Frances Stone (2008). Fred loved and enjoyed his German Shepard dogs and the many cats he had as pets. He was loyal to John Deere tractors and combines and Chevrolet vehicles. Fred could build, modify, repair or accomplish anything he set his mind to do. He enjoyed watching auto racing and Gonzaga basketball. Fred loved to eat and would challenge anyone to eat more than he could at any local buffet. He was more than willing to help all of his family and friends when needed. Fred was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. He was a loving, giving, hard working, dedicated, intelligent and talented person who instilled and expected these qualities in his family and friends. He was loved very much, respected by many and will be greatly missed. Funeral services will be held at Thornhill Valley Chapel, 1400 S. Pines Rd., Spokane Valley, WA on Thursday, November 11, 2010 at 11:00 A.M. with Military Honors. Burial to follow at Hillcrest Cemetery in Harrington, WA at 3:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The U.S. Veterans Home of Spokane, The Union Gospel Mission, S.C.R.A.P.S. Animal Shelter or Meals on Wheels. Our special thanks to Sunshine Gardens and Hospice of Spokane.