Allen S. Rogers

Allen S. Rogers, long-time resident of Granger, Indiana and a cherished educator, coach, and pillar of the South Bend community, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, at the age of 80. Allen was born on February 5, 1946, in Elkhart, Indiana to the late Stanley and Paula (Berger) Rogers. A graduate of Penn High School and Ball State University, Allen's life was one of dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of others.

Allen's journey through life was marked by his love for learning and teaching. After earning his master's degree, he embarked on a distinguished 38-year career as a science teacher with the South Bend Community School Corporation, imparting knowledge and inspiration at Riley, La Salle, and Clay High Schools. His dedication to education was recognized in 1993 when he was honored as the South Bend Teacher of the Year and became a state finalist, a testament to his exceptional ability to connect with and motivate his students.

Beyond the classroom, Allen's influence extended onto the fields and courts, where he coached cross country, tennis, and track with the same fervor and enthusiasm he brought to his teaching. His love for athletics was not just about competition but about instilling discipline, teamwork, and the joy of physical activity in young people. Allen's commitment to safe driving education also led him to become a respected Drivers Education Instructor, guiding countless students to become responsible and skilled drivers.

An avid marathoner, Allen's passion for running was not confined to his personal pursuits. He was a co-organizer of the Sunburst Marathon Race in South Bend, an event that has become a beloved tradition in the community, encouraging health, fitness, and camaraderie among participants of all ages.

Allen's legacy is carried on by his loving family, including his son, Todd Rogers of Tucson, AZ; his daughter, Julie (Robert) Oesterle of Perrysburg, OH; and his adored grandchildren, Autumn, Ryan, Lauren, and Audrey Oesterle He was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Ellen (Drzewicki) Rogers, his sister, Myrna Kay Earnhart, brother-in-law Dennis Dryden, and sister-in-law Valerie Dryden and his parents. Allen is survived by sisters-in-law Virginia (James) Jessup and Kathy Dryden, brothers-in-law John (Connie) Dryden, Eugene Dryden and Russ Earnhart, and numerous nieces and nephews who honor Allen's memory.

His family gratefully appreciates the assistance, and care provided by neighbors, friends and the staff-members of Home Instead, Healthwin Rehabilitation, Woodland Manor and Traditions Health Hospice throughout the past year.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 52553 N. Fir Road Granger, IN 46530, with burial to follow at Cedar Grove Cemetery at the University of Notre Dame.  Friends may visit with family from 10:00 am until the start of service.  There will be a visitation the night before on February 18, 2026 from 4:00pm-6:00pm at Palmer Funeral Homes – Welsheimer North Chapel 17033 Cleveland Road South Bend, IN 46635. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be left to the Humane Society of St. Joseph County, 2506 Grape Road Mishawaka, IN 46545. Online condolences may be left at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

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