Robert Lant Rogers

Robert “Bob” Lant Rogers passed away on October 12, 2025, at his home in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by his loving wife and children. He was 78 years old. Bob was born October 4, 1947, in Gary, IN, to Ladell H. (Forney) Rogers and Charles A. Rogers. Bob grew up near Lake Michigan in the Miller area of Gary. He spent his younger days with siblings and childhood friends, playing in the sand dunes of his Inland Manor neighborhood. Bob attended William A. Wirt High School and graduated in 1965. Bob briefly attended Indiana University before he was called to serve in the Vietnam War in 1968. Bob served as a combat medic with the 82nd Airborne until 1970. Bob was deeply proud of his military service. He often said, “I wouldn’t want to do it again, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.” Following his deployment, Bob returned to complete his degree at Indiana State University in Terre Haute, IN. It was there he met his future wife, Mary Helfrich. Bob and Mary were married on September 4,1971 in Evansville, IN. She lovingly survives. Bob and Mary made their home in Hobart, IN, where they raised their children Sarah and Mark. He worked much of his career as a property insurance adjuster; however, Bob’s real passion was coaching wrestling. Bob coached at Hobart Middle School and Hobart High School, as well as numerous years of freestyle club wrestling. During this time, he not only coached his son but also coached and mentored countless young men. Many of his former wrestlers reached out with messages of love during his final days. Our family is deeply grateful for their kindness. After their children were grown, Bob and Mary also lived briefly in Anthem, AZ; Wannamaker, IN; and Franklin, IN. Four years ago, they finally settled in his wife’s hometown of Evansville, IN. Bob will be remembered for his sense of humor, which was frequently sarcastic. He loved to tell a good story, animated with impressions of all the people involved. He loved watching sports, especially his beloved Chicago Cubs and Bears. He could often be heard using colorful language to “cheer on” his favorite teams. Bob was known for his talent for selecting paint colors, furniture, and artwork. Bob and Mary’s homes were beautifully decorated. Bob is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mary Rogers of Evansville, IN, his daughter Sarah (Scott Jessie) Rogers of Franklin, IN, son Mark (Anna) Rogers of Phoenix, AZ; and his grandchildren Maya Jessie, Nina Jessie, Nixon Rogers, Lauren Rogers, and Preston Rogers. Bob’s siblings, Tom (Jannie) Rogers of Westfield, IN; Don (Jackie) Rogers of Hobart, IN; and Lynn Frerichs of Sioux Falls, SD, also survive. Bob was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Ladell Rogers. No formal services will be held, according to Bob’s wishes. Pierre Funeral Home in Evansville is entrusted with final arrangements. The family will plan a celebration of life on a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a military veteran charity or a local food pantry in his memory. Bob personally supported Wounded Warrior Project, Tunnels to Towers, and the Hobart Food Pantry. Our family wants to thank all the friends and extended family who helped us through this challenging time. The family also thanks the employees of Heart-to-Heart Hospice for their care in Bob’s final days, especially Laura. We genuinely appreciate the exceptional care Laura gave our family immediately following Bob’s death and the dignified way she honored his military service.

Robert Lant Rogers

October 4, 1947 - October 12, 2025