Kenneth Merle Rogers passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at his home in Harriston on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, in his 76th year.
Much loved partner of Cheryl Bell of Harriston. Father of Ian Rogers & Stephanie of Montreal, Simon Rogers & Kathryn of Toronto, and Raïssa Rogers Gooren of Harriston, and grandfather of Gabrielle, Freya, and Leo. Brother of Sandra Rogers, and Peter Rogers, both of Hamilton, and remembered also by Cheryl’s family.
Predeceased by his parents Merle & Ann (Chiodo) Rogers.
Ken was a good-natured friend who enjoyed sharing stories and laughing. Born and raised in Hamilton, he took an early interest in reading and yoga. Throughout his life, he tried his hand at many things, such as an incense store, construction, and sign painting.
He moved to Guelph in the late 60s. There, he learned traditional candy making from Danny Doyle. In 1972, he founded “K.M. Rogers & Co. The Candyman” on 15 Quebec Street, where he made and sold hand-crafted candy.
He moved to a farm in Farewell in 1974, where, over the years, he tried his hand at various aspects of farming, including mixed crops, rabbits, and sheep. In the late 70s, he reopened The Candyman in Mount Forest while continuing to sell candy apples and other favourites at local festivals and fairs, such as his famous brittles, fudge, and pulled hard candy.
He loved cooking for friends and family, and brought new meaning to the concept of slow food. One of his greatest pleasures in life was walking with his dogs (Sheba, Nestle, Buddy, Kali) on the farm. Another was discovering and collecting finds within a variety of interests, especially rare and unusual books, and vintage blues and psychedelia records. In 2012, he purchased the former Crown theatre in Harriston and established his presence in that community. Suffering from poor eyesight throughout his life, he had eye surgery in 2021, and truly marvelled at the world as though for the first time.
He was enthusiastic about ideas and dreamed big dreams. He was proud of his children and grandchildren. He was loved and will be deeply missed.
The funeral service will be held at the Hardy-Lee Funeral Home, Harriston, on Sunday, August 31, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., with visitation one hour prior. The service will be live-streamed.
Click here to view service. Memorial donations to a charity of your choice would be appreciated. Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Hardy-Lee Funeral Home.
