Obituary of James Robert Rodger

WATERLOO - James "Bob" Robert Rodger, 89, of 49 Taylor Ave., died Wednesday (April 6, 2016) at Huntington Living Center, with his loving family by his side. Friends may call from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday (April 10) at Coe-Genung Funeral Home in Waterloo. Due to mechanical problems with the boiler at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, the Episcopal funeral service will be 10 a.m. Monday (April 11) at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Center St., Waterloo. Rev. Jeffrey Haugaard, rector of St. Paul's Episcopal Church, will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery in Waterloo. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 101 E. William St., Waterloo, NY, 13165. Bob was born in Seneca Castle, the son of William S. and Ida M. Lidenburg Rodger. He was a U.S. Army veteran, serving his country from 1945-1946. Bob married the love of his life Dec. 23, 1950, Lawanda "Lou" Kennedy Rodger. He enjoyed cooking and for five years he leased Van De Mark Diner in Waterloo. He then worked at Seneca Army Depot for 30 years, retiring in 1987. Bob was a very active member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church. He participated in St. Paul's Social Club, was former president of St. Paul's Men's Association, and general chairman for church dinners and barbecues. Bob enjoyed stock cars and served as president of the Waterloo Stock Car Association. He was former president of the Tri-County Racing Association and former organizer of WASCAR Reunions. Bob's greatest joy was attending various sports activities to watch his grandchildren. He was very proud of the fact he was able to see five generations of his family. He is survived by his son, Robert J. (Julie) Rodger of Waterloo; grandchildren, Tricia (Jay) Austin of Marcellus, Jamie Rodger and Kristopher Rodger, both of Waterloo, Kara (Jonathan) Rodger of Marcellus, and Ashley (Joseph) Tapscott of Geneva; fifteen great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews. Bob was predeceased by his loving wife, Lawanda "Lou" Rodger on Feb. 18, 2011; brother, William C. Rodger; and sister, Catherine Griffin. Condolences for the family may be sent to www.coegenungfuneral home.com.