Obituaries
RJ Rogers

RJ joined the Rogers family of Richard, Connie, and big sister Geri on October 26, 1968. He left this earth on April 25th, 2020.
RJ was a well-versed scholar, a Master Chef, a College Professor, and a practicing Buddhist. His high intellect knew no bounds, as he could always impart valuable knowledge about many diverse subjects, all the while having a gifted penchant to learn about literature, history, mechanics, science, and languages. His left-field wit and uncanny delivery exuded a sense of humor that only RJ could pull off. It was infectious, as were his laughter and quirks, always leaving you with a smile and a continued smirk. He was a Gonzo-loving, former Deadhead whose sandals walked a different path but beckoned you to join him.
RJ’s love for sports, cars (Mustangs especially), motorcycles, brewing, guns, and cooking was always present in his life and with those that shared time with him. At any moment he could recollect a random fact about most items of interest not only to him but anyone who wanted to listen and learn.
Being an avid triple-digit golfer and great set shot shooter, he somehow always had enough balls in the bag and could throw up a three-pointer with his eyes closed. He could have pursued many different career paths, but he chose his greatest passion, which was the culinary arts. RJ attended the Culinary Institute of America and was an American Culinary Federation Executive Chef. One of only 3 in the state. He will be greatly missed by his Sheridan College colleagues, students, and the Sheridan community.
He also served his country in the Army during the first Gulf War. Even though his knees were shot due to a helicopter rappelling exercise gone bad, RJ loved to haul a backpack through the Big Horn Mountains with his best friend Kelly. He treasured his time spent with close friends, whether it was camping, riding motorcycles, shooting guns, or even sitting at one of Sheridan County’s finest establishments imbibing a cold Coors and enjoying a Marlboro. RJ’s gentle and benevolent soul will always be remembered. We will laugh again.
RJ is survived by his sister Geri. He also leaves behind his Aunts and Uncles from the Rogers, Wilkinson, and Specketer families and his many treasured friends.
This couldn’t have have been written without Kelly’s valuable input. He captured the true essence of who RJ was.
Due to COVID-19, there will no services held by the family at this time.
Online condolences may be written at www.kanefuneral.com. Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with local arrangements.

Molly Bradshaw
May 6, 2020 at 9:29 pm
I am a former student of Rj’s. He was one of the best instructors I have ever had, and one of the best people I have come to know. He helped to shape and influence my career path through this day. I loved coming back into town for a visit and knowing exactly where I could find him for a catch up session. He was extremely funny, and scarcastic- and knew how to not only prank, but inspire his students to know and do better.
RJ was fantastic. He will be dearly missed. The memories will live on, along with some fantastic stories!
Much love to his family and loved ones!
Deborah Gleason
May 7, 2020 at 6:32 pm
Iam so Sorry to hear of RJ’s passing. I worked with Him at the Holiday Inn side by side at times he was a awesome person and could cook anything . He will be missed R I P. He was a great person.
Sarah
May 8, 2020 at 6:43 pm
I was a student of Ched RJs from 2009-2011. I was always mystified by how easy he made cooking seem. He would make fun of my height (5’2″) and would tell me to grow. I also always admired how he never took anything too seriously and was always up for a laugh. A memory that I have of him was a water fight in the kitchen and the next day he came to school/work with a bazooka water gun. Chef RJ will be greatly missed and his teachings will never be forgotten. My condolences to his family and friends.
Robin ziler
May 8, 2020 at 11:56 pm
I will always remember what I learned from him great person Patriot cook great teacher…I will very much miss the time he spent with me educating me about how restaurant things worked cost planning etc.. RJ spent time told me things when alot of people wouldn’t he had faith in me no matter how upset I made him he would just take a breath and relax…so many great memories working with him