Hal E. Rogers

“My journey down the river of life was a wonderful experience. Meeting lifelong friends, two wonderful wives, four outstanding children, 11 grandchildren and four beautiful great-granddaughters. I have been truly blessed.”

—Hal Rogers

Hal E. Rogers, a long-time resident of San Juan Island, passed away peacefully at his home March 3. He was 81.

Hal was born in Tacoma on Aug. 12, 1924. He enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard at 17 and went on to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps. He proudly fought for his country during World War II.

Hal was a devoted lifelong member of American Legion Post 163 and served as post commander. He was a game warden for many years, which is when his love affair with the San Juan Islands began.

Hal went on to sell real estate and eventually became a broker for San Juan Island Properties until he retired.

Hal was a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was a scoutmaster, a gentleman and a man of honor. He was gentle and kind, he had the biggest heart, a bigger smile and the most incredible sense of humor. He was special in so many ways and, more importantly, loved by so many people. His life was a parade in which so many of us were blessed to participate. He will truly be missed.

He is survived by two former wives, Jerrie Schmidt and Pam Joneli; children, Halli Hankenson, Scott Rogers, Gayla Rogers Missett and Jason Rogers; grandchildren, C. Grant McReynolds, Andrea Emmons, Brent Heming, Chris Rogers, Jonathan Rogers, Kimmy Rogers, Adrian Rogers, Austin Missett, Tanner Rogers, Shane Rogers and Ryan Rogers; and great-granddaughters: Savannah McReynolds, Taylor McReynolds, Lexie Johnson and Markayla Emmons.

Graveside service is March 11 at noon at Valley Cemetery, followed by a Celebration of Life potluck at the American Legion at 1 p.m.

— Hal E. Rogers family