Walter Arthur Rogers, age 86, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2026.

Born on November 24, 1939, Walter lived a life marked by hard work, resilience, humor, and deep love for his family. He dedicated 33 years of service to General Motors, where he worked at the heat treatment plant until his early retirement in 1989. Walter took pride in providing for his family through decades of honest work and commitment.

Walter was known for his sharp wit, memorable sayings, stubborn determination, and daily phone calls and conversations. He could be cantankerous, opinionated, and set in his ways, and those who knew him best also knew he made no secret of the people he held closest to his heart. Beneath his gruff exterior, however, was a fiercely loyal and protective man who cared deeply for his family in his own unmistakable way.

He loved life’s simple pleasures — Pepsi, peppermints, snacks shared with family, and long talks with the people he cared about most.

He is survived by his children, Paul (Deb) Rogers, Melissa Rogers, and Rebecca Rogers; grandchildren Crystal Smith, Jennifer Arp, Steven Smith, John Smith, Lindsey Barber, Richard Barber, Raiden Goben, and Elizabeth Smith; and 22 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind two beloved canine grand-daughters, Eevee Carol and Finley Melissa, who brought joy and comfort to him during his 2.5-year Medilodge stay. Walter is also survived by several nieces and his special nephew, Bob LeFever and special family friend Sherry Johnson who was Melissa’s friend in Lansing who continued the constant influx of Pepsi, peppermints and butterscotch pudding.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents, Noran Leilia (Smith) and Clarence Rogers; his siblings, Maryanne LeFever, Dora Schultz, and John Rogers; as well as his niece Karen LeFever and nephew Gary LeFever.

Walter’s family will remember him for his humor, his stories, his strength, and the unique way he stayed connected to the people he loved. His absence leaves a tremendous void, but the memories he created will remain with his family forever.

The family has chosen to hold a Celebration of Life in August to honor and remember Walter and reminisce.

He will be missed, remembered often, and quoted for years to come.