Roni Charles Rodgers

Roni Charles Rodgers, 68, of Union, Missouri, passed away on the evening of October 11, 2023 at the home of a dear friend.  

Roni was born in Washington, Missouri on August 3, 1955 to Ellis Rodgers and wife, Wilhelmina (nee Meyer).  He grew up in New Haven where he attended elementary and high school, graduating in 1973.  He became a member of Saint Peters United Church of Christ in New Haven where he was confirmed.

Roni’s career included working in law enforcement as a New Haven police officer and radio dispatcher for Franklin County, City of Washington and Missouri State Highway Patrol.  He also drove a bus for Mid America Coaches and was employed by Radio Shack and Batteries R Us. 

As a young teen he developed a passion for electronics and photography.  He built a darkroom in his parents’ basement where he developed many black and white photos for himself and others.  In the early 1970’s he began donating time installing 8-track players and CB radios for his friends.  He also donated time installing police squad car light bars, rotating lights, and beacons. He was a member of the Zero Beaters Ham Radio Club for many years where he was able to share his knowledge, skills and experience to bring people, electronics, and communication together.  

 His generosity continued for years when he drove friends and their family members to hospital and doctor appointments.  Roni’s final act of kindness was to pass life on through the gift of hope to Mid-America Transplant.

Roni is survived by two sons, Derek Rodgers, O’Fallon, Missouri; and Jarrod Rodgers, Washington, Missouri; two daughters, Heather Kelley and husband Kevin, Mission, Kansas; and Nicole Rodgers, Washington, Missouri; two sisters, Kay Egley, Surprise, Arizona and Elaine Pehle, New Haven, Missouri; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Roni was preceded in death by his parents, Ellis and Wilhelmina Rodgers and sister, Sandra Engelbrecht.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, May 20, 2024 at Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home in New Haven, Missouri.

Interment will be private at New Haven Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Franklin County Humane Society of Missouri.