Thomas Joseph Rodgers

Thomas Joseph Rodgers January 21, 1952 - November 26, 2024 Thomas Joseph Rodgers passed away peacefully at home on November 26, 2024, surrounded by his wife Rhonda Lucas, their beloved dog Stevie affectionately called their adopted daughter-and his green-wing macaw, Kodiak. He was 72 years old. Born on January 21, 1952, in Sacramento, California, Tom grew up in a family deeply rooted in agriculture. His parents, William and Mickalena Rodgers, carried on a three-generation dairy farming tradition until the land became part of Douglas Boutevard. Tom graduated from Truckee High School with honors and a letter for academic achievement, then earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Sierra College. Tom was a man of strong character-honest, hardworking, and loyal. He spent over 33 years in the grocery industry with Lucky, Albertsons, and Save Mart, earning the respect and trust of colleagues and customers alike. At 21, Tom married Kathy Bradshear, and together they had two sons. A lifelong learner and craftsman, Tom built his own workshop and taught himself to create fine furniture, including a handcrafted grandmother's clock. He could repair almost anything and took pride in doing things the right way. Tom had a deep connection to the outdoors. He loved fishing, boating, camping, gardening, barbecuing, and had once raised horses and goats. Nature was his sanctuary, and he was happiest on the water with a fishing rod in hand. Music played a central role in Tom's life. A drummer in his younger years, he was a devoted fan of rock and roll and attended live performances by Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Tom Petty, Bob Seger, the Eagles, and the Charlie Daniels Band. A proud moment in his life was carrying the Olympic torch when the Winter Games came through Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley). In 2005, Tom met Rhonda Lucas, and the bond was instant. They married and shared a rich life filled with travel, music, laughter, and companionship. Together, they explored the coast and mountains in their RV, towed Tom's boat to favorite lakes, and enjoyed countless NHRA races, Giants games, and concerts. Tom was a loving and generous husband and father, and his time with Rhonda brought him deep happiness. Tom is survived by his wife Rhonda Lucas of Grass Valley, California; sons Anthony Rodgers (Lacey) of Oklahoma and Nate Rodgers of Fair Oaks, California; grandchildren Haleigh and Austin Rodgers; brother Bill (Nancy) Rodgers of Post Falls, Idaho; sister Barbara (Jim) Kelly of Colfax, California; goddaughter Mary Rodgers; nephew Bill Rodgers Jr.; and many nieces, nephews, and close friends. He also leaves behind dear friends Ritch and Shannon Souza of Grass Valley. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mickalena Rodgers, and his sister Marlene Underwood. Though illness kept Tom from visiting his grandchildren in recent years, he remained deeply devoted to their future. He gifted them savings bonds each year for their birthdays and entrusted their college fund to their father, Anthony Rodgers. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Chapel of the Angels in Grass Valley, California. Tom will be remembered for his quiet strength, kindness, craftsmanship, and the lasting legacy he leaves behind through those who loved him.