Jim Rogers Obituary

James (Jim) Rogers, age 85 of Grand Rapids, MN, formerly Garden Corners, MI, died Friday, May 3, 2024, with his two favorite daughters by his side.
Jim is survived by daughters Laurel (Jere) Fremling, Holly (Trent) Wendler, and his grandchildren Joel (fiancé Courtney) Fremling, Alicia Wendler, and Kaila Fremling. He is preceded in death by wife Marilyn, parents CJ and Lillian (Horth) Rogers, sisters Emmy Lou (Ray) Runyan, and Arlene (Jerry) Dinkeldein.
Jim died of a broken heart, following the death of his wife, 14 days earlier. Marilyn was the love of his life. Their life adventure began in Manistique, MI. Jim's position with the Federal Forest Service allowed them to move to New Hampshire (where their two girls joined them), Vermont, Michigan, Oregon, and Minnesota. When Jim was able to retire, they headed back to the Manistique area and settled in Garden Corners, MI. Their final move was to Majestic Pines in Grand Rapids, MN, closer to family, and where the staff treated them like family.
Jim was an outdoor and sports enthusiast. He loved skiing, hunting, fishing, and golfing. A life-long Cubs fan, he was rewarded with the opportunity to finally watch the Cubbies clinch a World Series title. Jim was a Purdue alum, and former member of the Purdue University basketball practice squad. He was a loyal fan and wouldn't miss a game. His team did not let him down this year, and great joy, as they made a magnificent run to the NCAA Championship game. Boiler Up!
Retirement allowed Jim ample time to work on art. Jim loved painting waterfowl and nature scenes, including the forests and mountains that he frequented in his working years. Jim was able to share his love of art by teaching art classes in both Michigan and more recently at Majestic Pines. The fledgling artists who attended his classes were able to bring home a "masterpiece" after a few classes and proudly display them on their walls and tell the story to others of the meaning within.
If you spent any time with Jim, you knew that he enjoyed telling "stories". Some favorites included two skunks named "In" and "Out". Another one was about how to prevent "florist friars". Jokes were frequently met with an eye roll and a single "Ha" from his audience. If you missed out on any of these tales they can be found with a quick internet search. Keep in mind that what you find on the internet is the less embellished version. Ha!
A Memorial Celebration in Jim and Marilyn's memory will be held on Wednesday, May 8th from 4:00 - 5:00 PM at Majestic Pines Assisted Living, Grand Rapids, MN.
The family wishes to thank the staff at Majestic Pines for your loving care of both our mom and dad. They came to think of you as family and you are very special to them and their girls.