Obituary of John Rogalsky

John Rogalsky was called to his heavenly home on January 25, 2020, at the Village of Winston Park, Kitchener. His devotion to his family and his firm faith in God supported him as his health declined. John was born in Domain, Manitoba, on December 3, 1928. He was one of 13 children born to Jacob and Anna Rogalsky, and is survived by his sister, Martha. John’s intense curiosity and love of learning became evident early in his life, and he graduated at age 19 with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Manitoba. After graduation, he studied in Toronto and became a meteorologist. It was in Toronto that he met Anne Marie Lehn at a church picnic. They married in July 1952 and supported one another through many moves and adventures for over 68 years. John helped raise his 5 children with love and patience, modeling the importance of faith and humility. The family enjoyed many road trips and explored the natural beauty of Canada. He offered continuous opportunities for discovery and learning as they traveled and heard many stories from his own rich experiences. John retired in December 1983 after more than 34 years of service as a meteorologist and environmental researcher with the Government of Canada. In his retirement years he and Anne divided their time between their place in Florida and a cottage on Belwood Lake. He always made time to help his children with carefully considered insights and lived vicariously through their building projects and home renovations – things he loved and gave him purpose. John is lovingly remembered by his wife, Anne, his daughters, Linda (Wes) Coffey, Kathryn (Peter) Paetkau, and his sons, David (Cheryl), Paul (Angela), and Allan. He also delighted in visits from and stories about his 9 grandchildren: Erin (Rick), Stephanie (Ben), Mark (Shannon), Andrea (Greg), John (Jamie Lynn), Matthew (Meaghan), David (Lindsay), Holly and Penny, as well as 13 (and counting) special great-grandchildren. The family expresses heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at the Village of Winston Park for the countless ways dad was looked after and supported, as well as the compassionate pastoral care of Renee Sauder, pastor of John’s home congregation, Stirling Avenue Mennonite Church. Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be directed to MCC (Mennonite Central Committee at https://donate.mcccanada.ca)