Gerard (Jerry) Rogers, 61, a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Virginia, MN, on Thursday, March 22, 2018. He was born August 2, 1956 in Virginia, the son of John and Maureen (Lanari) Rogers. Jerry graduated from the Virginia High School in 1974 and earned degrees from the Mesabi Range Community College and Eveleth Vocational College. On May 9, 1981, he married the love of his life, Sharon Horton. Together, Jerry and Sharon raised two children, Amy and Andy. Jerry was a thirty-eight year employee of the Virginia School District where he worked in the maintenance and transportation departments. During his time there, Jerry was a positive influence on his co-workers and staff. He was always a helping hand when one was needed. Jerry retired from his lifelong career this previous June at the age of sixty to focus on his family and two beautiful grandchildren.

Jerry enjoyed painting, reading, being outdoors, and going on long walks. He could always be seen helping his neighbors and family. Jerry was a selfless individual who would do anything to support his family and friends. He was loved by those that knew him.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of thirty-six years: Sharon Rogers; two children: Amy (Mike) Irwin of Marana, AZ, and Andy (Karla) Rogers of Babbitt, MN; three grandchildren: Alexandra Irwin, Jameson Rogers, and newly born Gianna Irwin who was welcomed on March 27, 2018; twin brother: Pat (Cindy) Rogers of Virginia, MN; brothers: Steve (Angie) Rogers and John (Bonnie) Rogers both of Virginia, MN; sisters: Kathy (Donn) Schlotec of Proctor, MN, and JoAnn (John) Luhtala of Duluth, MN; brothers-in-law: Steven (Melissa) Horton of St. Charles, MO, and John (Susan) Horton of Andover, MN; sisters-in-law: Mary Anne Horton of Oakdale, MN, Libby (Glenn) Ferris of Marshfield, WI, Kathy (Kevin) Hoyhtya of Center City, MN, Leslie (Kim) Erickson of Boca Roton, FL, and Maggie (Ken) Holkko, of Virginia, MN; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents: John and Maureen Rogers, father-and mother-in law: Stanley and Betty Horton, niece Katie Horton, nephew Brogan Ferris, and great-nephew Will Schlotec.

Funeral arrangements are pending the ability of his newborn granddaughter to safely travel to Minnesota.

>> The Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 26, 2018 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Virginia. Reverend Father Brandon Moravitz will be the Celebrant. A gathering time for family and friends will begin at 10:00 a.m.