ROCKFORD, Mich. — A Michigan State Police sergeant who died unexpectedly over the weekend will be laid to rest on Friday.
Sgt. Matthew Rogers, 50, was born in Coldwater but has spent much of his adult life in Rockford. He leaves behind two daughters and family who remember "his infectious laugh, his unwavering integrity, and his generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him," the obituary reads.
Rogers spent 28 years with the Michigan State Police, where he worked as a trooper, detective, and later as a pilot.
He was a graduate of the 113th Trooper Recruit School serving at the Rockford Post, Wayland Post, the Special Operations Division's Aviation Unit, and the Grand Rapids Post. He was recently transferred back to the Special Operations Division's Aviation Unit as a pilot.
Outside of his work with the Michigan State Police, he was an outdoorsman who loved camping, riding his motorcycle, fishing and running his own stump-griding business.
"Matthew's life will be celebrated in a manner befitting the remarkable man he was. His family takes comfort in knowing that his impact will continue to be felt far and wide, through the memories he created and the lives he touched. Matthew R. Rogers lived a life of purpose and passion, and his story will be told with pride and love for generations to come," his obituary reads. "Above all, Matthew Rogers was a loving father who cherished every moment with his daughters. His legacy is one of love, service, and dedication, reflecting a life well-lived. His infectious laugh, his unwavering integrity, and his generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him."
Visitation for friends and family will be on Thursday, May 16 at Pederson Funeral Home in Rockford from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The funeral is set for 11 a.m. on Friday, May 17, at Ada Bible Church in Grand Rapids.
Another visitation is scheduled to start at 10 a.m. until the time of services at the church on Friday.
Instead of flowers, the family asks memorial contributions in his memory be directed to the Western Michigan University College of Aviation, Attn: Gift Processing, WMU Foundation, 1903 W. Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI, 49008-5403.
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