John "Joe" J. Rogers Jr.

John "Joe" J. Rogers Jr. 78, of Girard died on Monday January 27, 2025 at Pleasant Ridge Manor. He was born September 15, 1946 to the late John J. Sr. and Anna (Folderauer) Rogers. 

Joe grew up in Baltimore, Maryland attending Edmonton high school. He then worked a few years before deciding to follow his duty and enlist in the United States Marine Corps in 1965. He served more than two years over seas. Attaining the rank of Sergeant, he was awarded the Vietnamese Service Medal with one bronze star, Vietnamese Campaign medal with device, Combat Action Ribbon, Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Rifle Marksmanship Badge. Upon his Honorable Discharge he returned to Baltimore. A blind date introduced him to the woman who would become his wife, and together, they traveled the country, exploring new cities and seizing opportunities along the way.

Their journey eventually led them to settle in Erie, where Joe rekindled his commitment to serving his country by joining the National Guard working at the recruitment center and enlisting new members. Joe then found employment with the United States Government once again serving as a dedicated postal carrier for the local post office until his well-earned retirement.
Retirement afforded Joe the leisure to enjoy life, and he made the most of it. His summers were filled with moments on Lake Erie, where weekends were spent navigating the waters aboard his boat. A passionate fisherman, Joe found solace and joy with a fishing line in hand. He was also a member of the Girard American Legion Post #494 where he enjoyed watching the Orioles play.

He will be greatly missed by his family which include his wife Sandra (Freer) Rogers, whom he married September 5, 1970; his son, Michael Rogers (Andrea); sister, Ann Marie Wigand; brother, Norman Rogers (Charlotte); grandchildren, Kylee Miller, River Rogers, and Dylan Rogers; as well as several nieces and nephews. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 435, 4808 Carver Avenue, Erie, PA 16511.

Friends may call on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 5:00 pm to the time of service at 7:00 pm which will be followed by full military honors at the Edder Family Funeral Home, LLC, 309 Main St. E., Girard. 

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