Donald W. Rogers, Jr., a true cowboy, not just in heart but in ability, was born Nov. 16, 1944, in Jackson, Wyo., to Don and Nellie who brought him home to the Black Butte near his grandparents Dews’ Rock Creek Homestead. At age 7, Donnie and his two half-sisters, Leona and Nelda, his sister Roxanna Rogers Jensen, brother Jim and baby sister Linda moved to their new ranch in Boulder. As a youth, Donnie worked for many of the local ranchers as a cowhand and horse breaker, attending school only the required amount of time to graduate high school in 1963. He also helped build the White Pine ski run and the Olson Bridge over the New Fork. In 1969, Don returned from an Army tour in Vietnam with a Combat Infantry Badge, a National Defense Service medal, an 18th Military Police Brigade Certificate of Achievement, a Vietnam Campaign Certificate, a Vietnam Service Medal, Overseas Service Bars, two Purple Hearts and two Bronze Star Medals. Just weeks later, he was introduced by his sister Linda (Doug) Hill to Carol (Cami), who became his wife for almost 51 years. Together, they bought the family ranch. Besides ranching their own place, Don fed cattle for neighbors and the elk at the Muddy Feed Ground, broke horses, shod, sometimes 15 to 20 horses per day, and guided elk hunters in the fall. His guiding ability and horsemanship border on legendary among hunters and horsemen. On his culinary side, he enjoyed helping make jams and jellies and loved eating them even more. Thirty-some years ago, he became ditch rider for the Boulder Irrigation District and continued through this summer despite his serious illness because he was so concerned over the drought water situation affecting his neighbors. Lisa (Nate) Parra, Wade Rogers, and Dru (April) Rogers are his beloved children. He was Grampa to Dru and April’s precious children Ashley (Tyler) Hopkins, Emma, Shane, and Daisy, and uncle to 13 nieces and nephews. Don fell asleep in death July 26, 2021. A memorial celebration and potluck will be held Aug. 28 at 4 p.m. at the Boulder Community Center for family and friends.
