David Alan Rodgers

David Alan Rodgers was a man of few words, strong hands, and a heart devoted to the people he loved. A proud United States Marine, devoted husband, loving father, and cherished grandfather, Dave lived a life defined by hard work, quiet strength, faith, and family.

For 43 years, Dave shared his life with his beloved wife, Diane. Together, they built a life rooted in love, commitment, and family. As the father of three daughters, Dave was a proud girl dad long before the phrase became popular. Raising three girls — Amber, Emily, and Corie — brought a special kind of joy. He was their protector, their steady presence, and the man they could always count on.

An outdoorsman at heart and a gifted mechanic, Dave was a man who could fix just about anything. He also had a special place in his heart for animals, especially his beloved Boston terriers and many faithful canine companions who brought him joy and unconditional love throughout his life. He retired after a long career in food and beverage manufacturing with the last 13 years spent with Smithfield Foods. During his retirement he became a teacher at Tolles Career and Technical Center and offered consulting to a variety of manufacturing companies. He believed in the value of a hard day’s work and took pride in doing things with his own two hands. One of his greatest accomplishments was building their family farm and log cabin home, a labor of love that reflected his craftsmanship, determination, and vision. More than a home, it was a dream of creating a place where his grandchildren could gather, explore the outdoors, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life on a farm.

Dave found particular joy in sharing his knowledge with his grandsons, who became his apprentices along the way. Whether working on a project, learning to use tools, or lending a hand around the farm, they were given something far more valuable than a lesson in craftsmanship. They were learning the importance of patience, perseverance, and taking pride in a job well done. Those lessons, passed down from grandfather to grandson, will remain part of his lasting legacy.

Dave wasn’t a man who needed many words to make an impression. His actions spoke for him. He showed his love by being present, by providing for his family, by lending a helping hand, and by quietly doing what needed to be done.

Dave is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Diane Rodgers; his three daughters, Amber Elliott (Mike), Emily Laney (BJ), and Corie Rodgers; his seven cherished grandchildren, Jaxen, Addison, Avera, William, Jon David, Jolynn, and Bryan II; his siblings, Bill Rodgers (Michong), Kenny Rodgers (Linda), and Jenny Miller; his sister-in-law, Nan Zonker (Brad); and many loving nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by parents Kenneth and Janice Rodgers.

His legacy will not be measured by the things he owned, but by the things he built, the people he loved, and the values he instilled in those fortunate enough to know him.

Though his hands are now at rest, the work of his life remains all around us — in the homes he built, the land he loved, the family he raised, and the grandchildren who will carry his lessons forward.

A life well lived. A family deeply loved. A legacy built by hand and carried in the heart.

A private ceremony will be held for immediate family.