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E-mailOCTOBER 15, 1946 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2010
RESIDENT OF LIVERMORE
Born in Oakland, CA on October 15, 1946; then raised in the perfect community of San Lorenzo. There wasn’t a town better than San Lorenzo in the 50’s. Gary was born to William and Esther Rodgers, along with his sister Gerri, where they grew, attended local schools, excelled at sports and were provided an incredible sense of family.
In high school, Gary focused on sports and academics, and when graduation came and went, he sought out the Teamsters as a career, much like his father and uncles. He was part of Local #70 for many years. Baseball was a passion, and Gary spent twenty-five years coaching Little League, beginning in San Lorenzo and then Hayward American, giving to youngsters the knowledge of a game he so loved. Over the course of years, he also coached soccer and basketball. Later, living in Livermore and retired, he enjoyed cooking and planning the next event with his son and daughter.
Gary is survived by son Jarrett, daughter Briana, and wife Sandra. He loved them deeply. His family meant everything to him. His love of family included his sister Gerri, brother-in-law Larry Braswell, nephew Todd Braswell and nephew Ryan Braswell, and great-niece Madison Braswell. His extended family included brother-in-law David Santos, wife Loreen and nephews Brett Santos and fiancé Brenna, and Brannon Santos. Sadly and suddenly, Gary passed on September 4, 2010 with what should have been many more years of laughter, stories, jokes, vacations, trips, movies, music and holidays with family. We miss him already.
A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday September 17, 2010 at 10:30 AM, in the chapel at All Saints Church, 22824 Second Street, Hayward, CA 94541.
Holy Angels Funeral & Cremation Center FD1456(510) 537-6600
Guest Book
Love, Allan & Susan
Our thoughts, love & prayers our with you always. May god's love and grace help you through this day. May his peace give you the strength to carry on the journey.
Love,
The Concepcion Family
God bless all of you and most of all find peace with Gary's death knowing how much he loved you!!
He helped me with my Math when I was 16 years old. He gave me rides in his Black Impala. Gary always took my side when I needed protection from an Italian strict father....
He was easy to laugh, say 'Oh Man', put up with crabby Ang and the other Pinocle Team.
Gary drove the furthest, cried the loudest and visited most often to his nephew Brett when he received his TBI.
He supported Brett and Brannon with their education and life choices and always gave them words of encouragement. I remember one time, 33 years ago, visiting there house in Union City. Gary was sitting on a bench in the backyard with Jarrett and Briana on either side, they were all eating a big long carrot.Just sitting there, not talking, sitting quietly (unlike Jarrett ha-ha) Such a sweet peaceful scene, I will cherish this and other special mememories of Gary always. Until we meet again. Your sister-in-law,Loreen
I believe Gary's last message to us all was to live for today, none of us are guaranteed tomorrow.
He was a wonderful uncle to my sons and a great brother-in-law to Loreen & I... I already miss him.