Robert Joseph Rogers

In Loving Memory of Robert Joseph “Bob” Rogers February 8, 1946 – May 12, 2025

Robert Joseph Rogers, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2025, at the age of 79. Bob will be remembered for his kind heart, generous spirit, and deep devotion to his family and friends.

Born on February 8, 1946, in Queens, New York, to Francis and Mary Rogers, Bob was the younger brother of Francis Jr. In his early childhood, the Rogers family relocated to Bergenfield, New Jersey, where Bob's lifelong love of sports took root. He excelled athletically, earning nine varsity letters in football, soccer, wrestling, and tennis during high school. Bob went on to attend Bethany College, where he earned a bachelor's degree in economics and was a proud member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. He graduated in 1967 after a successful collegiate tennis career, earning four varsity letters and serving as team captain his senior year. It was at Bethany that he met his former wife, Jean.

After graduation, Bob entered the business world, working for Westinghouse, Harry Servis, Scott Construction, and Guardian Self-Storage. He also continued to pursue his love of tennis, and was an early joiner and long-time member of the Racquet Club of Pittsburgh. He continued to play in and win many USTA Men's Open singles and doubles tournaments behind the strength of his serve and forehand. He also contributed to the Pittsburgh tennis community by helping to run the Greater Pittsburgh Open, participating in charity events benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and serving as an officer in the Allegheny Mountain District of the USTA.

Not long before the arrival of his first child, Bob and Jean settled in Fox Chapel. Fatherhood was one of Bob’s greatest joys. He raised his sons, Matthew (Matt) and Andrew (Drew), with love and intention, teaching them the values of kindness, perseverance, and the importance of meaningful relationships. He also passed on his love of athletics, especially tennis, and spent countless hours on court with them either actively providing instruction or "generously" picking up balls while they trained so as to avoid any "wasted time" during practice. In a world of unruly sports parents and sideline coaches, he provided a calming presence at matches, knowing how to toe the line between coach and dad.

Throughout his life, Bob forged connections with others through his warmth, kindness, and sincere interest in people. He became a beloved regular at the Coffee Tree in Fox Chapel, where he greeted friends and newcomers alike with easy conversation and genuine camaraderie. Over time, his presence there became a fixture—his smile and words brightening the days of those around him. For those who knew him, it will feel profoundly different to stop for a morning coffee and not be greeted by Bob from his familiar corner table.

Even after losing a leg in an unfortunate accident later in life, he never once complained. His quiet strength and resilience inspired those who knew him, often putting their own struggles into perspective. In facing adversity with such grace, Bob reminded us all of the power of gratitude, perspective, and perseverance. Bob is survived by his sons, Matt (Monica Ruane Rogers) and Drew; his cherished grandchildren, Donovan and Marielle; and his former wife, Jean Toner. He leaves behind a legacy of love and friendship that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until the parting prayer at Fox Chapel Presbyterian Church, 384 Fox Chapel Road, Fox Chapel, PA. A private reception for family and close friends will immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests memorial contributions be made to the Jordan Thomas Foundation at https://jordanthomasfoundation.org/