Roland Francis Rodgers

Roland Francis Rodgers, 74, Morrisville, NC. Born in Philadelphia, PA on October 3, 1942. Graduated Saint Joseph's Preparatory School in Philadelphia. He obtained his undergraduate degree from LaSalle University and his graduate degree from Florida Institute of Technology. Visitation is scheduled from 4PM - 7PM on December 18, 2016 at Groover Funeral Home at Mansion Memorial Park located at 1400 36th Ave. E., Ellenton, FL 34222.A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10:30 AM on December 19, 2016 at Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini Catholic Church located at 12001 69th St. E., Parrish, FL 34219.Burial will be at 1:30 PM on December 19, 2016 at Sarasota National Cemetery located at 9810 State Rd. 72, Sarasota, FL 34241. Roland was preceded by his loving wife Carol (nee Lauria) of 45 years. Survivors include three sons: James and wife Cheryl of Cary, NC, Michael and wife Shirley of Tampa, FL, David and wife Johanna of Valrico, FL, and seven grandchildren: Rebecca, Sydney, Vincent, Tess, Luke, Hanna and Hunter. Brother Francis of Goodyear, AZ, sister-in-law Gloria and brother-in-law Nick of Philadelphia, PA and niece Erin and husband David and nephews Jeff and Chris. He was a member of Saint Michael's Catholic Church in Cary, NC and a member of the Knights of Columbus. A Vietnam veteran, Roland retired as an Army Colonel with 26 years of active duty with service that included duty in Europe, Vietnam, Middle East and Korea. Among his military awards and decorations are the Defense Distinguished Service medal, the Legion of Merit medal and the Bronze Star medal. Roland also held the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge. Arrangements are being handled by Groover Funeral Home at Mansion Memorial Park located at 1400 36th Ave. E., Ellenton, FL 34222. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini Catholic Church, Saint Michael's Catholic Church, Tidewell Hospice or to your favorite charity.