Stephen P. Rodgers (87) of Glendale, Arizona entered into Heaven on December 16, 2018. Stephen was born on February 18, 1931 and grew up in Hope Haven Orphanage until he became 18 years old and joined the Army. After completing his service in the Army, Stephen, joined the Air Force where he retired as a Tech Sergeant. Stephen loved the military and serving his country. He was a member of the Moose lodge and organized the annual serviced named “The Moose Golden Ball” each year. He also served as an honor guard member for recognition services, funeral services, and at The National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona for our fallen Military Service members and their families for over 50 years. Stephen’s heart was his family. He loved to sing Irish songs to his daughters and Florence (his ex-wife). Stephen loved God, the Catholic Church and Country. Stephen was known to all of his family and friends for his standard greeting of “Merry Christmas” “and I'm gonna give you a nickel.”
Stephen leaves behind his children Jimmy (Jeanne), Kimberley, Richard, Jeanne (Bill) and Tracey; grandchildren Larissa, Shelbie, Jacob, Stephen, Rachel, Samantha, Austin, Tristan and Brandon (Mandy); greatgrandchildren Gianna, Justin and Brayden; ex-wife Florence Rego and many other close family and friends. He is preceded by his son Rudy.
Services will be held at Chapel of the Chimes Mortuary at 7924 N 59th Ave. Glendale AZ in the Garden Chapel on Monday December 31st starting with a visitation at 1115am, Service and sharing 1215, celebration ceremony by the Patriot Guard riders at 1pm, followed by a burial at The National Memorial Cemetery at 2pm (escorted by the Patriot Guard Riders).
