Melvin Rodgers
Service Details
It is with great sadness that our family announces the unexpected passing of Melvin
Rodgers on September 13th, 2023, at the age of 74. He was an adored husband, father,
grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His peaceful exit, surrounded by family and with
grandchildren at his side, was a result of a short and sudden battle with Acute Myeloid
Leukemia.
Mel was born in Kirkland Lake, Ontario, in 1949, and was raised on a dairy farm. He
enjoyed being a goalie in both hockey and broomball in his youth. Mel had a variety of jobs
starting with the Adams Mine. This was followed by farming, Rodgers Gas Bar, school bus
driver and the Commercial Tavern before he moved west and retired from Fording River coal
mine in Elkford, B.C.
Mel was lovingly known as "Daddio", "Grampa", and occasionally "Melvis". He was one
of the most selfless, giving, and caring individuals that had an impact on anyone he met. Mel will
forever be remembered for his relentless hospitality; particularly with bartending and an endless
array of sweet tooth options.
Mel most enjoyed spending time with his family. Through meals, cards, games, and
watching the Blue Jays, he embraced every opportunity to spend time with those he loved. When
he wasn't with his family he occupied his time with shopping, baking, sudoku, solitaire, and most
recently e-biking.
A big part of Mel's life included summer visits to Charlton, Ontario where he spent time
with lifelong friends and family. Winter months were spent in Palm Springs, California, where
many new friendships and memories were made.
He is survived by his loving wife and best friend Joanne Rodgers (nee Playford) of
Lethbridge, Alberta; mother in law Mildred (Micki) Playford; his daughters Pamela (Sean)
Racicot, Jolene Rodgers; his son Colin (Lesley) Rodgers; and his four grandchildren Kelsey,
Kaitlyn, Kelly, and Kameron.
Mel leaves behind a brother Calvin (Linda) Rodgers as well as many extended family members. He was predeceased by his parents Gerald and Eva Rodgers
and his father in law Clayton Playford.
Melvin’s final resting place will be back home in Charlton, Ontario.