Joseph J. Rogers

Joseph James Rogers III, 78, of Shaler, passed away on Thursday, August 27th, surrounded by his wife, Jennifer (Eldridge) Rogers, and daughter, Regan Rogers. Brother of the late Karen (Jack) Clarey, survived by brother Tim (Kathy) Rogers, nephew Johnny Clarey and niece Julia Rogers. Born in Frankfurt, Germany, Joe was the first child of Maria (Gilbert) and Joseph Rogers. When his father’s service ended the young family moved back to Pittsburgh. Joe and Jennifer began dating while both at Shaler high school. They married in 1974, and have loved each other for 63 years. They built a partnership of loyalty, stubbornness and humor. Together they raised the perfect daughter! Regan shares her dad’s with love of music, dark sense of humor and proclivity for swearing.He also leaves behind the lifelong friends he made in his childhood neighborhood in lower Glenshaw, at Shaler High School and throughout his hippie days, who he remained friends with until the end. Playing football, then tennis, golf and always poker. Joe worked for Babcock Lumber Company for over thirty years before he retired. He also coached several of his daughter’s soccer teams over the years. Always bringing much needed patience to a team of teenage girls. Joe loved watching and reading Sci-fi and horror throughout his life, but also never missing a rerun of M*A*S*H*. He was a devoted husband, father, and friend. He was a kind stranger, or your worst nightmare if you were a slow driver. He had a life filled with wonderful memories and endless stories from his childhood to his hippie days. Stories his family and friends will carry forever. He was deeply loved and will be missed. Joe’s family is planning a Celebration of Life. Details to be shared in the coming weeks. To honor Joe please donate to your local blood bank. Joe went through 30 pints of blood in the last year. We are trying to replace some.