ROGERS, Gertrude

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona - 02/25/2005 Gertrude Hatch Rogers, 85, of Mesa died Feb. 20, 2005. A native of Arizona, she lived her first 58 years in Taylor before moving to Mesa with her husband, Joseph, who proceeded her in death in 1993. Her passions were family and friends, music, and nutritional counseling. The latter she often provided to the first. Her wit, knowledge, and compassion will be missed by many. Born March 12, 1919 she joins several dear ones including one daughter, Madalynn, who preceded her in 1992 at age 44 from an untimely car accident caused by a drunk driver. She is now survived by two daughters, Veda Jo Rogers, and Trudy Rogers Licano; 7 grandchildren; and 3 great grandchildren. It was Gertrude's very specific request that there be no funeral services. Over the years, having attended many herself for several of her own family members and friends, she waxed strong in wanting to avoid her own. She asked that hers be at least the one funeral that she would not have to attend. However, she did graciously agree to allow graveside services to be given in her honor, though she requested it to be on a warm Taylor day with no rain or wind. Those knowing Taylor, will also know this was her way of prolonging the event as long as possible. This specific request never changed from the time she was in good health three years ago until these past few months as she struggled hard to live a little longer for all of us. All too soon, these services will now be held this Saturday, Feb. 26 at 11 a.m. at the Taylor Cemetery. Any of those wanting to help create a warm day with their friendship are invited to attend. A viewing will take place at the LDS Taylor chapel just east of the cemetery from 9:30-10:30 a.m