Terrance Brian Rogers, Col. (Ret) RCAF

June 18, 1948 - January 18, 2021

June 18, 1948 - January 18, 2021

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend to many.

Terry was cherished by his wife of 51 years, Heather, and by his children, Brian (Nicole) Rogers, and Tammy (Jeremy) Kerr as well as his grandchildren Danielle (Steven) Laitinen, Kathryn and Amy Rogers; Sarah and Matthew Kerr. Terry’s treasured grandchildren were his pride and joy. Terry will be sadly missed by his brothers, Charles (Joyce) Rogers of Winnipeg, Mb and Richard (Carol) Rogers of Nanton, Alta as well as his sisters in law, Sharon (Gary) Sinclair and Maureen Henderson, both of Victoria, BC.

Terry was born into a military family and was the middle son of the late Harold and Rhoda Rogers of Stewiacke, NS. As an Officer Cadet at Royal Roads Military College, he met, then after Graduation married Heather. Terry’s 35-year military career took the family on many memorable journeys with postings from NS to Florida to Ontario, and saving the best for last — Beautiful BC. His integrity and remarkable abilities were not only a lesson to his family but were also recognized by the military. Career highlights included C.O. of VP407 Sqdn and his appointment as Commander of 19 Wing, Comox. After retirement, Terry joined 3E Training, a position he enjoyed immensely on account of his colleagues. Terry also served 2 terms on the Board of Community Living Victoria in honour of Maureen and her housemates.

Travel, golf, gardening, and walking became Terry’s retirement hobbies, however, his love and devotion to his children and his grandchildren surpassed all else. Family events always became a cause for Celebration and he never turned down an opportunity to attend a grandchild’s piano or dance recital or hockey game — he was an avid fan of all they do. His sense of humour, kindness and happiness serve as reminders for all of us to truly enjoy the time we share with one another. Terry inspired us to travel and took us on so many amazing trips. He taught us to work hard to accomplish our goals. And he taught us that Family always comes first. Terry left us much too early, but our cherished memories and the love we share are with us until we meet again.

“ I love you and don’t you forget it”.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Donations in Terry’s name can be made to the BC Cancer Foundation https://bccancerfoundation.com/ or to the Heart and Stroke Foundation https://www.heartandstroke.ca/.   Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com.

45 Responses

  1. I have many excellent memories of Terry; he certainly lived life enthusiastically. We enjoyed battling on the tennis court at CFB Esquimalt during many lunch hours. We also participated on the same team for the infamous Snow to Surf Race in Comox where our very mature team competed with much heart if not much success. Terry – you were a great guy to know and I am better person for having known you.

  2. Valarie Austen

    Heather, our sincere condolences to you and your family. Terry was a shining star at 3e Training and liked and admired by everyone. Truly a natural leader, mentor and friend. He will be missed very much.
    Valarie & Robert

  3. Heather and Family
    Judy and I are so sorry to hear of Terry’s passing. He was a true friend and colleague. Always filled with confidence and humour Terry instilled that confidence and well being to all who knew and worked with him. His passing is a loss to all of us.
    Our memories of Terry have been and will always be warm and pleasant.
    May happier memories help you through your sorrow.

    With love Gary and Judy Hare

  4. I too was saddened to hear of Terry’s passing. Terry was an excellent mentor and instructor for the young Navs who joined the community, and I always enjoyed meeting him as our careers allowed along the way. My condolences Heather as you and the family mourn the loss of this great man.

    Mike Hache

  5. As a U.S. Navy exchange officer I had the pleasure of serving under Terry when he commanded 407 Squadron. I will always be grateful for his leadership and friendship. He had a tremendous influence on both my military career and personal life. Terry was the consummate leader who was respected by all who served with him. I feel extremely fortunate to have been one of them. Terry’s passing will be felt by all of us and may we never forget the memories of his remarkable accomplishments.

    Hold on High Skipper!

  6. It is with much sadness that I learned of Terry’s passing.He was a “Demon”(407 Sqn) colleague who was so well respected for his Maritime Air expertise and mentorship of so many young officers in the Argus/ Aurora community.Many condolences are extended to Heather and family. Per Ardua Ad Astra.
    Stan Brygadyr

  7. Heather and family-

    It’s still hard to believe that Terry has passed away, and far too early. He was by any measure a true gentleman and a professional airman whose natural leadership skills set a high mark…he was a definite presence no matter the occasion or venue and always committed fully to every task throughout his distinguished military career. He was no slouch on the golf links either!! Now, having ‘slipped the surly bounds of earth’ he will be sorely missed but never forgotten. Thanks for the memories Terry and may you rest in eternal peace.

    We extend our sincere condolences to Heather and family.

    Barry and Mary Bowen

  8. Pat and I remember Terry and Heather from our the early days on squadron in Greenwood though our paths did cross on occasion throughout his career. Terry was the consummate professional aviator, with a wicked sense of humour and a forthright manner that appealed to one and all.
    Our sympathies to Heather and family who lost a wonderful guy far too soon.

    Pat and George Hendry

  9. Sincere condolences to Heather and family on the untimely passing of Terry. Like you, we are all left with fond memories of our very happy association with him over many years. May he rest in peace.

  10. I first worked with Terry on 404 Sqdn as we converted folks to the new CP140, then we worked together in DMA in Ottawa later on. A consummate professional with a wicked sense of humour and infectious smile, you always knew where you stood with this man.’Cause he would tell you! His tours at 407 and 19 Wing set the standard for those of us that would follow his path. I always knew I had a friend in Victoria whenever I visited. Dearest Heather; Barbara and I send our heartfelt sympathies to you and your kids – he is gone far too soon, but never forgotten. He has passed the torch for us to…. Hold on High!

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