Ronald D. Rogers Sr.

Woolwich - Ronald D. Rogers Sr., 77, affectionately known as “Dad” and “Papa Rogers”,  a proud U.S. Army veteran who courageously served in the Vietnam War, passed away suddenly at his home on July 22, 2025, just where he wanted to be.

     Ronald was born on May 2, 1948, in Hardwick, Vermont, to parents Elizabeth and Robert Rogers. He studied agriculture and farming in college and worked on many dairy farms alongside his former wife, Margaret.

     He was predeceased by his parents, Elizabeth and Robert Rogers Sr, and his brothers, Lloyd Wayne Rogers and Robert Rogers Jr. Ron had a special place in his heart for Bobs children, Robbie, Randy and Ronda.

     Ronald is survived by his former wife, Margaret Harrington; his son Joseph(Joey) Rogers and partner Megan, and their daughters Abby, Erin, and Hannah; his daughter Megan James, her daughter Margaret(Maggie), and stepchildren Michael, Emily, and Ashley; and his son Ethan Rogers and partner Desiree, their daughter Emma, and stepson Damion; Ron was previously married to Elaine West Manard and they had 3 children together Their son Ronald Rogers Jr, ex-wife Jenn Rogers, and their daughter Madi, his daughter Amy and husband, their two sons  and first born Anne Tilton.  He is also survived by his brother Larry James Rogers; and his sisters Rita Mary Lovejoy, Linda Lea Rogers, and Renee Elizabeth Coombs, many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind many dear friends, extended family, and those whose lives were touched by his stories, his kindness, and his strength.

     Over the years, Ronald wore many hats. Ron quit high school to move to Connecticut where he worked at Pratt & Whitney, building aircraft engines and auxiliary power units—a job he took great pride in. He had a brief marriage there that ended when he received his draft notice or shortly thereafter . He later worked as a mental health worker at the Bangor Mental Health Institute in the 1970s worked as a carpenter , a cook for Miss Wiscasset Diner and for Christinas restaurant in Bath(now Maes)and even dug worms for Phil Harrington Bait. No matter the job, Ronald brought dedication, craftsmanship, and heart to everything he did.

     While stationed in Hawaii, training for computer work prior to going to Vietnam he had one of the most unforgettable experiences of his life—shaking hands with Jimi Hendrix, a moment he spoke of with great joy and pride. A true hippie at heart, Ronald found deep meaning in music. He played the guitar and banjo and loved listening to Pink Floyd, The Grateful Dead, Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, and, of course, Hendrix.

     In 1993, Ronald attended an Outward Bound retreat with fellow Vietnam veterans—a powerful and healing experience he never forgot. He was sober for 35 years, a journey he credited to God, the love of his family, and the fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous. He became a guiding light for many on the same path, always ready to share his story and offer hope.

     Ronald retired as a 100% disabled veteran and spent more than 30 years living on the land he loved, raising Fallow deer, cows, chickens, horses, pigs—and three amazing children. He loved four-wheeling and riding his side-by-side through the woods, always with a big smile and a story to share.

     Camping was one of Ronald’s greatest joys. Many years with the kids in the Jackman area then began with trips to Rangeley and continued for over 30 summers at Coos Canyon Campground in Byron, Maine, where he discovered a passion for gold panning and dredging. He panned out many gold nuggets, but the real treasure was the friendships and memories he made along the way.

     Anyone who met Ronald knew how much he loved to talk—and especially to tell stories. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome, heard, and remembered. He was beloved by all who knew him—funny, kind, deeply thoughtful, and always unapologetically himself.

     His children’s mother Margaret thinks the one thing she was always proud of him for, is the way he continued to stand by the families agreement to help and care for his mom always physically, emotionally and financially until the very end , as the whole family agreed when their Dad died.

      Dad repeated this every night with his prayers, and would always include a prayer for those still suffering and less fortunate.

“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,

courage to change the things I can,

and the wisdom to know the difference.”

     A Celebration of life will be held at 1 PM on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at Snow Pond Center for the Arts, 8 Golden Road in Sidney.

Condolences may be made online at www.DaigleFuneralHome.com