RODGERS, Charles Randolph “Randy”
Passed away at home unexpectedly from natural causes in La Crete, AB, on Tuesday March 26, 2024, Charles Randolph Rodgers (Randy) in his 72nd year. Randy is predeceased by his parents, Alice and Earl Rodgers, as well as brothers Wayne, Paul and Earl. Left with loving memories are his sister Diane Jennings (Gary) of Peoria, Arizona and brothers Gordon (Joy) of the Philippines and Adrian (Emily) of New Albany, Ohio. Treasured nieces and nephews Stephanie (Steve) Collins, Sara Sheehan, George (Lesia Manchulenko) Jennings, Heidi and Krista Rodgers as well as great nieces and nephews Julia, Mark and Allison Collins, Meka and Kolya Jennings Manchulenko, Hannah and Andrew, Sheehan and Elijah and Benjamin Calder. Randy was also blessed to have one great, great nephew, Levi, whom he adored and took great pleasure in getting to know during the last 18 months. Randy leaves behind many aunts, uncles, and cousins in the Rodgers, Parrott, Green and Pynn families as well as many, many friends both near and far including the staff and students of Buffalo Head Prairie School, where Randy was teaching at the time of his passing, and the many families of La Crete; a community he loved so much. Randy’s funeral service and internment took place in his home town of La Crete AB Thursday, April 4, 2024. There will be a Memorial Service in NL in late August-early September. Another announcement will follow. Randy was born on June 24, 1951, the fourth child of seven. He was very outgoing and kept his parents and siblings on their toes. He had a curious nature and loved to have fun. As an adult he was always up for a good time and enjoyed traveling, meeting new people, having a cup of tea and sometimes even a drink. as a graduate of Memorial University of Newfoundland’ s Music program, he loved to sing and was a valued chorister with many church and singing groups including Cantus Vocum. Randy was an awesome dancer and an even better storyteller, and he will always be remembered for his hearty laugh, wonderful smile, and kind nature. Randy loved people! Everywhere he went, he made a point in getting to know the individuals he met. Whether it was the cashier at the supermarket or the guy sitting next to him on the airplane, Randy had a special warmth and an amazing ability to chat easily with them. He genuinely cared for the people he met on his life’s journey and really listened to the stories they shared. He was a man of great faith and made a conscious effort to demonstrate the Christian values of love, compassion and respect to everyone he met. Many of his chance encounters resulted in lasting friendships. Randy was a true friend, and he knew how to be a friend. Randy was a teacher and dearly loved his life work. In June 2006 Randy retired from the Eastern School District in Newfoundland where he was both a classroom and music teacher. Retirement was short lived, however, and he decided to move to La Crete, Alberta to begin yet another career in education with the Fort Vermillion School Division. Randy loved to discuss trends in education, both new and old, prepare for school concerts, and assist colleagues with their classrooms. But mostly, Randy adored children and the students of his classroom and school. He made them feel special and accepted and they knew he believed in them. When opportunities presented, Randy made a point of keeping in touch with the young lives he touched. He supported their efforts with wisdom and advice, kindness and generosity. Randy believed in the power of education and the importance of giving back. As per Randy’s request, a scholarship has been established at Buffalo Head School in his memory. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Buffalo Head Prairie Scholarship Fund can be sent via e-transfer to: randyrodgersscholarshipfund@gmail.com