Bruce Rogers

Bruce L. Rogers, 82 years young, flew with the angels on Thursday, June 2nd, 2022, with his loving wife and sons by his side, and his daughters, grandchildren, and siblings in prayerful vigil.

Bruce was an icon of Indiana teacher advocacy, and the state teacher's union, having devoted his career to working for the Indiana State Teacher's Association.

Born April 28, 1940, in Mishawaka, Indiana to Roy and Mary Rogers, Bruce spent his early years growing up on the family farm where he developed an enduring love of John Deere tractors and all things green. He also fell in love with his dad's Studebaker, fostering a lifelong hobby of restoring cars and trucks. He was most passionate about his 1950 green Chevy truck.

Bruce received his B.S in Education from Bethel College, M.S. from Purdue in the Building Trades, and M.S. from Notre Dame in History. He was an avid reader of books on history and politics. When he wasn't busy with one of his hobbies like woodworking, or fishing, he would passionately discuss policy and legislative issues of the day with anyone who would listen, or anyone who he thought needed to hear his perspective on social issues!

Teachers all over Indiana remember Bruce as a tenacious negotiator in his role as Director of Collective Bargaining for ISTA and his leadership during many successful school strikes. Bruce would say he was most proud of his development of the ISTA Insurance Trust and Financial Services where he was CEO until his retirement in 2002. Bruce was spirited and resolute in his advocacy for those who could not speak for themselves.

While Bruce had many recognitions and accomplishments, he was most proud of his designation as a Sagamore of the Wabash. It was presented in his retirement in recognition of his service to others.

Bruce is survived by his loving wife Judith (Hodde) Rogers, daughters Sheila Thompson (Jerry), Sheri Miller (John), son Kent Rogers (Jennifer), stepson Byron Lee (Erin), his siblings Neva St. Louis and Eric (Pam) Rogers. Also left to cherish his memory, and all their rides in Grandpa's John Deere Gator, are Rachel Spath (Brian), Meredith Blount, Annabeth Blount, Billy Blount, Johnny Miller, Jack Miller, Claire Rogers, Grant Rogers, Orson Lee and Hugo Lee. Bruce was also blessed with four great grandchildren, Gabe Brown, Noah Blount, Izzy Blount, and David Spath.

Others Bruce considered his family were his PSO Brothers and Sisters and his dearest friend, Duane Cheney. He would be described by friends and family as generous, industrious, and loyal.

Funeral Services are on Monday, June 20, 2022, at St. Paul Catholic Church, Tell City, Indiana. Visitation begins at 9:00 am in the church atrium. The funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 am. Burial services will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery. Condolences may be left online at zoercher-gillickfuneralhome.com.

Bruce lived with Type 1 Juvenile Diabetes since 1953. Through meticulous care for his health, and the support of family and doctors, he thrived for nearly 70 years with this disease. The family, and Bruce, requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to Riley Children's Hospital Juvenile Diabetes Research by calling 317-634-4474, online, or by mail, in remembrance of Bruce Rogers: Riley Children's Foundation PO Box 3356 Indianapolis, IN 46206.

Rest in Peace. You were a warrior throughout your life. You fought valiantly for your health and powerfully for those whose rights needed protection!

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