Oleta Irene Crusinbery Rodgers

Ms. Oleta Irene Crusinbery Rodgers, age 83, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025, in Bradenton, Florida. Born on March 25, 1942, in Woods County, Oklahoma, Oleta grew up on a small farm between Waynoka and Aline, OK. She graduated from Waynoka High School in 1960.

After high school, Oleta moved to Enid for a while, however, she spent most of her life in Colorado, where she found joy and peace in the mountains she loved so dearly. She lived a life marked by devotion, resilience, and love.

She was the cherished mother of four children: Cynthia J. Castelvecchi and husband Frank Castelvecchi, Sheryl D. Kemerling and husband Bob Kemerling, Teresa L. Roark and husband Jim Roark and Robert M. Hayes and wife Sherry Hayes. Her legacy continues through 15 grandchildren: Latisha Harger, Heather Taylor, Adam Kemerling, Cassandra Smith, Brandon Smith, Christopher Hayes, Ashley Wilson, Sara Mann, Trevor Wilson, Steven Roark, Jon Roark, Joe Castelvecchi, Matt Castelvecchi, Megan Castelvecchi, and Sara Castelvecchi—along with 13 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. Oleta was preceded in death by her beloved parents, William and Cora Crusinbery, and her siblings: Marjorie Hadley, Mildred Benson, Clara May Boren, Gladys Snyder, Dorothy Ashton, and Glen Crusinbery.

A woman of quiet strength and gentle spirit, Oleta found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid reader of novels and had a remarkable green thumb, cultivating beauty in every garden she touched. Her loyal dog Smokey was a constant companion and source of comfort.

Oleta was also a passionate Denver Broncos fan, faithfully cheering on her team with pride and enthusiasm. To her children and grandchildren, she was more than a mother and grandmother—she was a confidant, advisor, and unwavering source of love and support.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Oklahoma for Oleta at a later date.

In accordance with Oleta’s wishes, memorial contributions may be made to the Jimmy V Foundation for Cancer Research in lieu of flowers.