Robert Leroy Rogers

On July 18th, 2026, Robert “Bob” Rogers left us suddenly. Our family lovingly referred to him as “the man, the myth, the legend”. It is only fitting that we will try to capture his legendary story here.

The Man: Bob was born on October 30, 1947. He was raised in Dansville, MI, and had an athletic upbringing. He married Christine Schmidt on May 8, 1982, and together they raised five children. Bob was a great husband, father, and grandfather, and was just loving life as a great grandpa. Bob was a fiercely loyal family man and would do anything for any one of his people (except give up his “wad” of cash, ready for the next big find, always in his pocket). Our family spent a great amount of time giving him a hard time, and he gave it right back (perhaps that is vice versa). He was and will always be the foundation of our family, and we already miss him deeply. Bob leaves behind his wife of 44 years, Christine Rogers; son Scott (Kim) Rogers, daughters Shelley (Joe) Quiroga, Jennifer (Jim) Hirt, and Tina (Joe) Walker. He also leaves behind his grandchildren Kelsey (Brandon) Garred, Kylie Rogers, Olivia Quiroga, Joel (Sierra) Kinell, Maggie (Jeff) Walker, John (Caroline) Hirt, and Dylan Hirt. Bob is also survived by his brothers-in-law Lary Schimdt and Eric (Edwina) Schmidt. He was predeceased by his son, Troy Schroeder and brothers-in law Robert Schmidt and Steven Schmidt.

The Myth: Many people that interact with Bob would think he is a gruff man. The truth is that he was sensitive and sometimes soft as well. He couldn’t have been prouder of his children and grandchildren and was happiest when any of them were around. He was the type of person that would tell you what he thinks, even when you may not want to hear it. He had the strongest work ethic, and still proudly went to work seven days a week. Bob loved sports and spent hours watching and talking games. He was a little league coach back in the day and then a high school umpire. A man of few words, but big impact.

The Legend: There was no one like Bob in the antiques world. Early on, he was a master class in sports memorabilia and later with his wife bought the Williamston Antiques Mall and became THE man to talk to for anything vintage. We meet people in random antique stores that will exclaim “he’s a legend” when we mention him. To that, we say “we know, we know”. Bob’s legendary professional presence will be missed far and wide. We aren’t sure who people in the antiques trade will call for advice, but we know there will be a void that can’t be replaced.

The visitation will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2026, between the hours of 11 AM until the family-lead service at 12 PM at Gorsline Runciman 205 E. Middle Street, Williamston, MI 48895.