Paul C. Rogers

Paul Christopher Rogers passed away at the age of 70 after a lengthy battle with Alzheimers. Paul was born in Portland, Oregon on Sept. 6th, 1953, the fifth child of William F. and Irene Rogers. He grew up in NE Portland before relocating to SW Portland at the age of 10, where he attended St. Clare school. Paul graduated from Wilson High School in 1971 and after two years at PCC transferred to the University of Oregon where he graduated with a degree in finance in 1975.  Paul followed his father into the coffee business and worked in finance for Boyd Coffee Company for 35 years. 

He met his wife, Mary Ellen (Fitzsimmons) in 1976 and they were married in Concord, MA in 1980. Paul and Mary Ellen had four children: Shannon (Whitaker), Michael, Patrick, and Colleen.  Paul loved the outdoors and could often be found walking, hiking and camping whenever the opportunity arose. He epitomized why it is called fishing and not catching, but never missed the chance to bait and cast a line. He and Mary Ellen took their family on many annual trips to Naples, Florida, Cape Cod, Massachusetts and Black Butte Ranch. He could always be counted on to play with the kids in the water for hours on end and serve up a blender of his homemade pina coladas. Paul and Mary Ellen built their second home in Manzanita in 1992, which became the backdrop for many wonderful memories including bonfires on the beach, golf, ditch ‘em in the dunes, crabbing, and too many competitive family card games to count. Paul’s pride and joy was his family. Paul spent every spare moment playing with or supporting his kids in their endeavors. From coaching youth sports to homework help, he was never too tired for a game of horse in the driveway or one more book. This attentiveness carried on to his grandchildren. “Paul-Paul” was a beloved playmate to his 7 grandkids. Paul was a selfless person who believed in always doing the right thing. He had unparalleled integrity and a dry wit that was appreciated by all who knew him. He will be forever missed.

Paul is survived by his wife of 43 years, Mary Ellen, his daughters Shannon Whitaker (Eric) and Colleen Rogers, Sons Michael Rogers (Nicole) and Patrick Rogers (Kimmie), grandchildren Brendan, Liam & Finn Whitaker and Walker, Hadley, Rowan, & Maren Rogers, brothers Bill & Mark Rogers and sisters Julie & Sharon Rogers, as well as numerous well-loved nieces and nephews and in-laws.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Thomas More Church at 11am on Thursday, Jan. 11th.

In lieu of flowers, go outside and play with your kids, enjoy nature, or help the next person you see struggling. We love you Dad!!