Ian Hamilton Rogers
February 16, 1948 – March 17, 2025
If you ever found yourself on the receiving end of one of Ian Rogers’ famously long stories, you knew you were in the presence of a man who had lived fully and loved deeply. A storyteller, a protector, a man with a heart as big as his bear hugs—Ian passed away peacefully on March 17, 2025, at the age of 77.
While we are grateful that he has found peace after his battle with Alzheimer’s, we will miss him dearly—especially his big smile, quick wit, and unwavering love for his family.
Born in Oxford, Nova Scotia, to Sheldon and Margaret Rogers, Ian’s adventurous spirit took root early. He began his career with the Canadian Coast Guard, where he crossed the Arctic Circle, and later joined the RCMP at just 20 years old. Over nearly 30 years, Ian served in many divisions, from drug enforcement and immigration to federal policing and marine patrol on Lake Ontario. His service earned him the RCMP Long Service Medal—an honour reflecting his dedication and pride in serving Canada.
Beyond duty, Ian found joy in the little and big things. Post-retirement, he could often be found at Winchester Golf Course in Oshawa, rain or shine, with clubs in hand and a smile on his face. He loved nature, fishing trips, family cottages, and road trips to the East Coast. A lifelong enthusiast of trains, boats, and planes, he maintained a childlike wonder for all things mechanical.
A voracious reader, Ian's home was filled with books on history, adventure, and fantasy—his passion for Tolkien's world of dragons was legendary. He was endlessly proud that his son carried on the love of storytelling as an author.
Ian is survived by his beloved wife, Jan Millar-Rogers; his children, David Ian Hamilton Rogers (Kathryn Verhulst-Rogers) and Jennifer Margaret Anne Rogers; and his brothers, Lorne and Bradley Rogers. A quiet dog-whisperer, Ian was adored by neighborhood pets and held a deep affection for his loyal dog Molly and many cherished cats over the years.
Ian Rogers was a man of kindness, humour, and strength. Though he is no longer with us, his long, rambling stories—rich with life, love, and laughter—will live on in every heart he touched.
