Ida M. “Tootie” Rogers passed away on Wednesday, December 30, at Graceway of Countryside Nursing Home in South Haven where she had been a resident for over nine years. She was born in Watervliet on January 19, 1932 to Earl and Lula Blanshan. She graduated from Watervliet High School in 1950. Tootie married Harley Rogers in 1951 who she met while working at the Beverly Lumber Company. She worked as assistant librarian at Watervliet High School for several years and as a USPS mail carrier in Watervliet for 17 ½ years before retiring in 1994.
Surviving is her daughter Debbie (Mel) Glover, grandson Chad Brinks, great granddaughter Andrea Brinks, step great grandsons Donald Holmes and Trevor Blamer. Tootie was preceded in death by her husband Harley, her son Larry and significant others Erdean Kelly and Ralph Ruder. Also preceded her in death were brothers and sisters; Earl Blanshan, Agnes Kabel, Dora Moser, Nona Kabel and Harold Blanshan.
Tootie and Erdean enjoyed going up to Sault Ste. Marie to watch the ships go through the locks. They also had many favorite restaurants in the area.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to North Berrien Senior Center in Coloma or to the charity of your choice.
The family has entrusted Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet with arrangements. A private burial will take place in Watervliet Cemetery. No public memorial service will be held. Those wishing to leave a memorial condolence may do so on this page.
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