Charles Gerald Rodgers

Charles Gerald Rodgers, 83, died in his Laurel home on February 20, 2020 with visits from dear friends and finally resting peacefully with his family by his side. Charles was born on October 28, 1936 and lived his entire life in Laurel. He married Shirley Darlene Walter of Billings on August 28, 1954.

Charles enlisted in the U.S Army where he served three years, a majority stationed in Anchorage, Alaska.  Along the way, Charles and Shirley had three beautiful children Debbie, Ronald, and Steve.

Charles finished his military commitment and returned to Laurel with his family where he began work at Darigold Dairy delivering milk. Soon after he started working at the Laurel Slaughter Plant. He purchased the meat processing plant in the early 1970s where he won many awards through the American Meat Association, namely for his jerky, sausage, and meat curing products.  After a successful career in the industry, he sold the plant and semi-retired working part-time at Laurel Auto Parts.

Charles’ semi-retirement continued a run of public service that begun 27 years prior when he joined the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department. With guidance from his uncle, he followed up with 15 years as a City Council Member and 10 years as Mayor for the City of Laurel.

Charles was skilled at many things. He was an accomplished woodworker, golf enthusiast, and outdoorsman. He loved to hunt and fish. He enjoyed the company of his dear friends and loved spending time with his family.

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He cherished his siblings and their children. He is preceded in death by his parents Charles and Ethel Rodgers, his brother Lyle Rodgers, his sister Evelyn Linger, and his son Ronald Rodgers. He is survived by his wife Shirley, his daughter Debbie (Greg) Renner, his son Steve (Teale) Rodgers, six grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

Charles will be remembered for many things and at the end-of-the-day, he was just a very simple man. Most of all, we’ll remember Charles Gerald Rodgers for the many things he taught us, like the importance of faith and family, the ability to listen and lead, and one’s service to country and community.

In lieu of flowers, please make a charitable donation in Charles’ honor to one of the following: Laurel Methodist Church, Laurel Volunteer Fire Department, or charity of choice.