Arnold Rodgers

Arnold Rodgers - Decorated World War II Veteran, Arnold Robert Rodgers, Sr., was born on March 12, 1918, and he lived for 90 years. On March 27, 2008, surrounded by family at home, he passed as peacefully as he had lived his life. He died after a long battle with heart disease. Arnold had many interests. He enjoyed yearly trips to visit his step-children that live in Alaska. He was a member of the United Church of Christ. Also, Arnold was noted for his BBQ chicken, and he could cook a mean flank steak. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in his name to: Hospice of Petaluma, 416 Payran Street, Petaluma, CA 94952 or to the United Church of Christ, 825 Middlefield Drive, Petaluma, CA 94952. An open house celebration of his rich life will be held at the family home on Sunday, May 11, 2008 from 2:00pm until 5:00pm. Continuing without him is Ursula, his wife of 42 years. His first wife, Dolores, died in 1964. Still living are Arnold's children, Arnold Rodgers, Jr. and wife Janice, David Rodgers and wife Mary. His daughter Peggy Ann Shriver preceded him in death in 1996, leaving her husband Ed Shriver. Also surviving him are Arnold's step-children Kathy Richardson and husband Bill, Mary Bookman and husband Bruce, Mike Rearden and wife Nita, Nancy Kleine and husband Ken, and Jim Rearden and Cindy Piezzi. Still living are his brother Stuart and sister Dorothy. His grandchildren and their families include: Aaron Rodgers and wife Michelle with children Abbey, Michael, Taylor, and Tanner, Jessica Heath and husband Terry and son Dustin, Chad Rodgers and wife Kim with children Annalise, Ava, and Noah, Kendra Gish and husband Bryan with children Riley and Isaac, Melissa Carlson and husband Brad with children Alexander, Nathan, and baby due in April, Nicholas Shriver and wife Mandy, Steve Vanek and wife Lisa and son Christopher, Teague Vanek and wife Betsy and sons Thomas and John, Heather Gilchrist and husband Joseph and sons Brennan and Taran, Jason Bookman and wife Renae, Steven Bookman and wife Lea and son Bruno, Alexander Bookman and wife Gaby, Stefan Rearden with children Kayla and Kyle, Spencer Rearden and wife Katie, Sara Rearden, Sterling Rearden, Darius Kleine, Lydia Kleine, Haley Rearden, and Sam Rearden. Preceding him in death was grandchild, Erik Bookman in 2006. He also leaves many nieces, nephews and their families. Arnold treasured his entire family. Arnold was one of 13 children.