Loyd Michael "Mike" Rogers, 79, of Havre de Grace, Maryland, passed away peacefully on 29 June 2026, surrounded by the love of his family, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. His life was one defined by courage, devotion, and service. Born on March 16, 1947, in Gastonia, North Carolina, he was the eldest son of the late Loyd Warren Rogers and Dorothy Elizabeth Nash Rogers.

When the Vietnam War loomed and he was about to be drafted, Mike enlisted with the U.S. Army and through that opportunity, became the first person in his family to go to college. This was also the beginning of his long military career. Mike proudly served in the United States Army Special Forces, where he carried out missions few ever hear about and even fewer could endure. He was involved in POW extractions and was credited with bringing home more than 200 Prisoners of War. In the course of that service, he himself became a POW - an experience that shaped his lifelong commitment to helping veterans and honoring those who served. While he had impressive physical strength, as proven by his third-degree black belt in Karate, he also had a powerful mind, strength of character, and a kind heart.

Mike's love of travel shaped the way he viewed the world. His journeys took him to some of history's most meaningful landmarks, including the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. He also spent a year stationed in Korea, an experience that broadened his perspective and deepened his appreciation for different cultures, histories, and traditions. These adventures sparked a lifelong curiosity and gave him a unique outlook on life that he shared with those around him.

This curiosity carried over into many of the hobbies and interests that brought him joy throughout his life. Mike was an amateur photographer, loved brush art, and enjoyed detailing model cars. He was fascinated by space and science fiction, enjoyed listening to music, and was an enthusiastic NASCAR fan who rarely missed a race. He also faithfully cheered on his beloved Denver Broncos through many football seasons. His favorite way to unwind was to play video games and watch action and adventure movies on his big-screen TV. Mike's adventurous spirit left lasting memories with all who knew and loved him.

A person of faith, Mike grew up in a Baptist household, but after marrying his wife Deborah, he embraced and warmly connected with the traditions of the Catholic Church. He would often joke that he was "Batholic". Mike lived his life with purpose. His quiet strength and great dignity, as a true Southern gentleman, endeared him to everyone who met him. He loved helping his family, supporting his community, and often contributed to causes that helped to support his fellow veterans.

Mike is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Deborah June Rogers, with whom he formed a true partnership. To the rest of the world, they were "Mike and Debbie", but to each other they were "soulmates" and "lobsters," and affectionately known to each other as "Pookie". Together they were a team in every sense, facing life's challenges side by side and sharing its joys with gratitude.

He is also survived by his children, Ashley Hosson (Christopher) and Shawn C. Rogers; his grandson, Christian C. Rogers; his brother Warren "Keith" Rogers (Donna K.); his sister Darlene E. Rogers; and his sassy, faithful Pomeranian Abigail "Abby" Rogers, who he referred to as his "Therapy Turd".

He leaves behind nieces and nephews who loved him dearly: Amy E. Robinson (Michael Petersohn), Michael "Brad" Robinson, Loyd Keith "Boomer" Heffner, MaKayla L. Heffner, Brandon C. Heffner, Addison P. Heffner, and Makenzie K. Rogers.

Mike was preceded in death by his son, Jonathan B. Rogers, who passed away in 2005, and by his sister, Pamela L. Robinson.

A memorial service for Mike will be held in North Carolina in the near future. Friends and family will be notified of the date and time once arrangements are finalized.

Helping our nation's veterans was a cause that was especially close to Mike's heart. In honor of his memory and in lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation, continuing Mike's commitment to supporting those who have served our country.

Link: https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/