Paul J Rogstad Jr.

Paul J. Rogstad of Applegate, California, passed away on October 18, 2024 at the age of 76 after a brief, courageous battle with lymphoma.

Paul was born March 18, 1948, and grew up in the State of Washington in a family with 9 children. Following his high school graduation, Paul was drafted October 1967 into the Army. After attending jump school, he served in the 82nd Airborne Division.

Paul went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in Sociology and a Master's degree in Education / Special Education, holding 5 teaching credentials. Working with individuals with intellectual disabilities, older adults, and inmates, Paul served as an Adult Education / Special Education instructor through both Placer School for Adults and Sierra College. Additionally, he worked as a Disability Employment Manager for PRIDE Industries. Upon his retirement in 2012, Paul was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award.

A devoted husband and father who will be lovingly remembered by his family and friends, Paul was also a well-known member of the community and was widely respected and admired for his professional and civic contributions. Among other things, he spent countless hours volunteering as a Special Olympics coach for Motherlode Special Olympics.

Paul was an extraordinary cook and baker, as well as a talented craft jewelry maker. He took much pleasure in giving his baked goods and jewelry to family and friends and charitable causes.

Paul greatly enjoyed his home of 34 years in the beautiful Sierra Foothills, and found contentment in simple, everyday things. He loved gardening, reading, ceramics, studying geology, and watching football. He also took pride in his ability to problem solve and could fix most anything.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents Paul Rogstad Sr. and Alice McMullen, and siblings Anton Rogstad, Ellen Reed, and Darryl Rogstad. He is survived by wife Valerie Rogstad; children Jacob Rogstad, Brett Rogstad and Adriana Villafana; siblings Joanne Rogstad, Carol Wilcox, Peggy Mitchell, Sally Rogstad, and Pete Rogstad; and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, November 9, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Chapel of the Hills, 1331 Lincoln Way, Auburn, California. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the American Cancer Society.