Melvin Ivan Rodgers

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.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Melvin Ivan Rodgers, please visit our floral store.