Clarence William Rogge, age 98, of Jordan passed away on Tuesday, March 3, 2015 at the Garfield County Health Center in Jordan.
Clarence was born on February 9, 1917 to Herman and Anna Rogge at the family home north of Jordan, Montana. He was the eldest of seven siblings. He grew up on the family ranch, helping care for livestock, breaking horses and farming. He attended the local country school and finished 8th grade there. In the 30’s he left home and went to work on the Parker farm near Custer, Montana. He worked there in the sugar beet fields, milked cows, and other farm duties. He worked this job 7 days a week for 5 years at $1.00 a day.
From an early age, Clarence developed a passion for dancing, and despite his fulltime work, he occasionally attended Saturday night dances. He was called up with several other young men to Butte for the military. Not passing the medical exam he was sent back to work. He returned to the Jordan area soon after, and began thinking it was time to get married and settle down. He met Stella Barker at a dance, when his mother encouraged him to dance with a shy dark-haired girl, who just happened to be a friend of his sister, Viola. They were married in Miles City on November 16, 1942. They worked on the Weeding farm until they purchased land adjoining Stella’s parents, southwest of Sand Springs. Clarence built their first two room home. As their children arrived, daughter Lois, and son Richard, Clarence added on more rooms. He lived there until he entered the Health Center in Jordan, where he resided for the past two years.
Clarence was a very hard working, loving, and quietly humorous man whose life was working and playing with his family. Music was a large part of the family, and when there was music, Clarence was dancing or playing the harmonica, and occasionally doing both at the same time. Clarence and Stella were nearly inseparable during their 66 years together. They worked cattle, hayed the fields, and all other chores demanded on a ranch. They enjoyed visiting neighbors and attending dances where Stella often helped play and Clarence could indulge in his favorite pastime.
As Stella’s health began to deteriorate in 2007, Clarence’s loyalty and devotion was evident as he spent every moment he could away from the ranch with her. Stella passed away in 2008. Clarence worked his ranch until 2010, when he sold his beloved cows and spent a couple winters with Lois. He continued to dance and Clara Saylor often joined him at the Grass Range jam sessions and other dances. He also continued to play with and dance to music with a local musical group at the health center every week. His last dance was a few days after his 98th birthday.
Clarence was preceded in death by his parents, wife Stella, son Richard, brothers Cliff, Clyde and Cecil, and sisters Hilda and Viola. He is survived by a brother Edwin (Darlene) Rogge, daughter Lois (Darrell) Johnson, grandchildren Sheryl (Brad) Wutzke, Elisa (Gerard) Murnion, Kevin (Kasie) Rogge, Brian, Rachel and Coryn Rogge, seven great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 16, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. the VFW Hall in Jordan. Interment will follow in the Wolf Cemetery. Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
In lieu of flowers, please give donations to your favorite charity or church.
Linda Estes says
Lois and family. The heavens just got another good musician and dancer. May the memories give you a lifetime of joy. He was such a nice man and will be missed by the entire community.
Kim Evans says
I enjoyed Rosa’s company and learned how to find a good bargain from her as well. I remember out of the blue while working at the star she would bring the pressman and inserters donuts for breakfast and pizza when we had our busy holiday times. Her advice to others was simple but good “Keep looking up and keep moving forward” Very effective no matter where you are at in life. Rosa and Don in their relationship were a good example from others to learn from and I liked how he would dote on her and make sure she had everything she needed and wanted. She will be missed and was truly admired and Loved.
Phil and Darlene Shawver says
Condolences and Prayers for all of Clarences Family .He will always be remembered for his love for music and dancing.
Delores Hill and Family says
Lois and Family,
We offer our heartfelt condolences and prayers to all of you. Clarence was a fine man and a good neighbor and fellow Christian. God bless you.
J.D. and Mary Alice Murnion says
Sympathy to the Clarence Rogge family,
He lived a very long full life. I know you will all miss his pesence in your lives. Many memories of the family and the musical abilities.
Cindy Stanton says
My sincerest condolences to all Clarence ‘s family. What a talented, charming man. He will be missed by many. Peace be with you all.
Karla Christensen says
How happy and gifted in music! Gene and I have special memories of Clarence playing the harmonica for a dance at the old Ross Hall filling the log cabin with “get up and dance music” . Then Clarence would grab a partner and take a spin around the floor. The beams were so low that he would have to duck under them – never missing a beat. Joy beaming into all corners of the old dance hall. What fun!!!
Karen Witt says
Dear Elisa, Kevin, Brian, Rachel and Coryn,
My heartfelt sympathy to you for the lose of your grandpa. I always enjoyed his music when they played at the health center. Sorry I will miss the service I have an appointment in Lewistown that day.
Tim and Cheri Hafla says
Our deepest sympathy to all Clarence’s family..
Allen and Karen Barnes says
Sympathy to all of Clarence’s family. May your wonderful memories ease the pain of loss.
Elaine Howard says
Lois Jean,
Your cousins send our sympathy. Your father was a wonderful man. Hope you’re doing well.