With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Tom Rogerson, our beloved husband, father, “Bubba”, and “Tomcat”. Tom passed away on June 11th, 2022 after a long and tough fight with a heart infection.
He was predeceased by his grandmothers, Florence Sutphen and Florence Peterson; by his parents Don and Shirley Rogerson; by his parents-in-law, Lawrence and Gwendolyn Mack; and his brothers-in-law Richard Mack and Lawrence Mack.
He is survived by his wife, Karyn; by his children, Ashley (Kelly Towns) and Scott (Alex); by his grandchildren, Tommy, Elliot, Rhett, and upcoming grandson; by his sisters-in-law Kay Mack, Debbie Mack (Terry Button), and Barbara Mack; by his siblings, Darlene (Mike) Wassink and Jimmy Don; by his aunts and uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins; and by his dear friends, neighbors, and euchre group.
Tom was born in Rochester, NY on December 8th, 1955. After high school, he spent 4 years in the navy as an aviation flight mechanic. He frequently talked about his time aboard the aircraft carrier USS Forrestal touring the Mediterranean, and about his time spent stationed in San Diego and Jacksonville.
When he returned from duty he enjoyed working for ITEK as a building mechanic, where among other things, he perfected his home improvement skills. After several back surgeries, he returned to school to become a pharmacy technician and spent the next 30 years working for the Genesee Hospital and the Rochester VA.
A blind date led him to his wife, Karyn, whose heart he won after only 3 short months of dating. They married in November of 1980 and spent over 40 years in a genuine and loving relationship that was driven by hard work and dedication. She was his other half and he was hers. Together they built a life and family that bloomed in the village of Fairport in the brick house on Frank Street.
What started as a first house grew into their beautiful forever home that Tom and Karyn never stopped working on. All who walk past the house stop to enjoy their beautiful gardens and “bug rocks”. Tom spent many days working on the more laborious and unglamorous parts of gardening but was always rewarded with a home-cooked meal by Karyn. Some even say he may have been the best-fed man in all of Fairport. If Tom wasn’t building a deck, remodeling the kitchen, or adding a bathroom, you could find him bench pressing with Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd in his weight room, or walking around the village and by the canal.
Their home holds countless memories of family gatherings with the kids and grandkids, whom Tom was fiercely proud of and loved dearly. He attended thousands of Ashley and Scott’s sporting events throughout their schooling at Fairport, as well as later while Ashely attended Allegheny College; and he more recently enjoyed watching Scott coach at Vertus High School. He let the players play, the coaches coach, and just enjoyed watching his kids do what they love. It was rare that Tom and Karyn didn’t get lost as soon as they stepped outside the bounds of Fairport, and even rarer that Tom stopped for directions, but they were always there ready to cheer!
The Rogersons formed everlasting bonds with so many parents of Ashley and Scott’s teammates and coaches. We thank them for all the wonderful years on the sidelines, post-game celebrations, and good times that are still a regular occurrence.
Tom adored his grandchildren, who love their “Bubba” equally as much. He was known to sneak them extra whipped cream and cookies, and always gave up the remote for a few episodes of Coco, even during Jeopardy. He loved fixing things with Tommy in Boston, was amazed at the things that came out of Rhett’s mouth and the big personality bursting out of little Ellie, and he was excited to meet the newest Rogerson this fall. Through our memories and stories, we will be sure they know him well.
Over the years Tom went through many health setbacks, but he always managed to put on a brave face and rally for his loved ones. We are so grateful for the time we had with him, and for the love and support we feel now. We look forward to celebrating his life with you at Mulconry’s.
Celebration of Life Info:
All are welcome at a Celebration of Life honoring Tom Rogerson
Sunday, June 26, 2022
11:00AM-3:00PM
Mulconry’s Irish Pub & Restaurant
17 Liftbridge Lane, Fairport, New York
Casual attire
In Lieu of Flowers Info/Links:
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to our fundraising page for the recent Central MA Heart and Stroke Walk or the Honor Flight.
https://www2.heart.org/site/TR/HeartWalk/FDA-FoundersAffiliate?team_id=708530&pg=team&fr_id=6409
Comments
7 responses to “Rogerson, Thomas A.”
This family has always had a special place in my heart. I met Tom while I coached Ashley as a 9 year old!
When my daughter was born, Tom was working at the hospital that evening and took my husband out for a garbage plate at 2 am to talk life and congratulations. That was just ONE of the many Tom Memories we hold dear. We will always remember Tom for his soft spoken kindness. Much love to the entire Rogerson family
Karyn and family, I am so sorry to see this, and I just want to pass on my heartfelt condolences. I wish that there was something I could do to make the pain go away but only time can ease that. I’ll be thinking of you.
Karen
We were neighbors for 14 years. And I don’t think I ever saw Tom not working on a project. I had a wall falling down in my backyard and I mentioned to Tom that I was thinking about pulling it down and replacing it. The next day it was gone! Tom had removed the railroad ties that were the wall. No small feat! That act said so much about his character. Thank you Tom.
Karyn, We’re so saddened to hear of Tom’s passing. God’s peace to you and your family. Cindy and Rob
Karyn, So sorry for your lost. I know only time will heal, but your family will find peace and love, supporting each other. I was so glad you came to Wendy’s to visit me. Memories are a wonderful joy to us all.
Karen, Ashley and Scott and families we are shocked and saddened to hear about Tom’s passing. So many soccer games watching and cheering on our kids. What a great man, that shy smile and grin. Such a dedicated family man. A great legacy to hold in your memories and lives. Know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Karyn, Please accept my sincerest sympathy for the loss of your husband. Wishing you and your family peace, comfort and hope during this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.