Donald Edd Rogers

   Donald Edd Rogers was born April 11, 1941, in a 2-room dugout in Slapout, Oklahoma. Don was 8^th of 13 children born to Ruth Belle (Jemes) and Willard Wayne Rogers.  He came from humble beginnings and maintained that humility throughout his lifetime.  His entire childhood was spent in the panhandle of Oklahoma. He graduated from Laverne High School in 1959.

   Don was driven from an early age to pursue a career in anesthesia, although no one really understands how he even knew what “anesthesia” was!  Early in his studies, while working as a student nurse at Western State Psychiatric Hospital in Fort Supply, OK, he met another young student nurse who would later become his bride. Yes, they met at a mental institution!

   On November 25, 1960, Don married Nancy Ann Cook.  Together they had 3 children: Mark Allen, Amy Shawn, and Kimberly Donn.  Don and Nancy were amazing parents, dedicated and giving of their time.  They provided an amazing, fun-filled childhood for their 3 children, forming many rich and terrific memories of vacations to Disney World, camping trips, afternoons water skiing at the lake, family reunions, and world travels.  For decades, Don and Nancy worked side by side in the hospital – Don doing anesthesia and Nancy working in recovery room/PACU.  People joked that, “Don knocks ‘em out, and Nancy makes sure they wake up!” They divorced after 21 years of marriage.

   Don, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service was a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthesiologist (CRNA). Donald devoted his life to his career in anesthesia, always eager to rise to the occasion whenever his expertise was required.

   Born with a passion for flying, Donald found immense joy in soaring through the skies with his group of pilot friends. His love for adventure extended beyond his personal pursuits, as he embarked on numerous medical missions to Guatemala, providing his skills and compassion to those in need. Donald's generosity knew no bounds, and his selfless efforts touched the lives of countless individuals.

   In addition to his professional accomplishments, Donald cherished his role as a father and was known as the neighborhood's trusted "fix-it guy." Whether it was repairing bicycles or lending a helping hand with household tasks, Donald's willingness to help others made him a pillar of support in his community. His expertise in keeping bicycles running smoothly brought smiles to the faces of children throughout the neighborhood.

   Beyond his medical and mechanical pursuits, Donald had an array of hobbies that embraced his creativity and passion for craftsmanship. From flying to collecting and fixing antique clocks, engraving signs and name pins, sharpening medical equipment, beekeeping, gardening, and woodworking, Donald's diverse interests kept him engaged and fulfilled. His handmade furniture pieces continue to be cherished by his family, a testament to his talent and enduring legacy.

   Donald Edd Rogers will be deeply missed by his family and friends, who will remember him for his unwavering dedication to his career, his adventurous spirit, and his warm-heartedness. His memory will forever remain alive in the hearts of those he touched with his kindness, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

   Don is preceded in death by both his parents; his son, Mark Allen Rogers; his daughter, Amy Shawn Rogers; his brothers – Pat Eugene, Wayne, LeRoy, Marvin, and Eldon Rogers and his sisters – Carolyn Sue, Betty Herring, Mary Harber, and Shirley Weiszbrod.

   Don is survived by his daughter, Kimberly Richardson (Tim) of Edmond; his grandchildren, Ryan (Emily) and Rachel Richardson of Oklahoma City; his great-grandson, Jaxson Richardson of Edmond; his sisters Stella Freeman of Woodward, Glenda Reinier (Gwen) of Jacksonville, FL; brother Tomie Rogers of Laverne; Friend and Companion Tricia Henderson, as well as many dear friends, cousins, nieces and nephews scattered throughout the country.

   Don battled Metastatic Melanoma for the last 3 years.  He fought fiercely but succumbed to pneumonia in the end on 2-4-24. In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions can be made to: Melanoma Research Alliance at curemelanoma.org.  Or donations made to The May Oklahoma Cemetery, where many of Don’s family members are buried and also appreciated:  May Cemetery Association, PO Box 34, May, OK  73851 (Please put in honor of Don Rogers on any checks mailed here.)