Ruth Rogers

Ruth Rogers, longtime Dundee resident, devoted registered nurse, Master Gardener, mother, grandmother and treasured friend, passed away on August 23, 2026, in Dundee, Oregon, at the age of 99. She leaves behind a remarkable legacy of service, family, friendship and a life fully lived.

Ruth was born January 25, 1927, in Oakland, California. As a young woman during World War II, she pursued nursing with the intention of serving her country. She completed her training and became a Registered Nurse just as World War II was coming to an end. What began as a desire to serve became a lifelong calling.

Ruth spent much of her nursing career in Southern California, working at several hospitals as well as in physicians' private practices. In 1991, she returned to the Pacific Northwest, where her sisters lived, and continued working as a registered nurse in the McMinnville area. Remarkably, Ruth continued in the profession she loved until retiring at 72 years old.

Ruth had an extraordinary work ethic, a quality she passed on to each of her children. She believed in working hard, being responsible and taking care of what needed to be done. Ruth often showed that she cared through her actions and by the example she set. Her children knew that she cared for them, and the independence, determination and strong work ethic they carry today are an important part of her legacy.

Retirement, however, did not mean slowing down. Ruth became a Master Gardener, devoting many years to sharing her knowledge and love of gardening. Her contributions were recognized when she was named a 2011 Diamond Pioneer by Oregon State University's College of Agricultural Sciences, an honor recognizing significant contributions to Oregon agriculture and natural resources.

Ruth was also an active member of the Dundee Women's Club, serving as both Secretary and Treasurer and continuing her involvement well into her 90s. She valued friendship and community throughout her life. Even at 99, Ruth enjoyed outings and evenings with her friends and continued her nights out until only weeks before her passing.

Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Jerome S. Rogers, and her sister, Alice Huiard. She is survived by her sisters, Janet Hanson (Wayne) and Carol Hanson; her four children, Linda Sasser, Debbie Ray (Richard), Alan Drew Sasser (Vicky), and Kevin Sasser (Ann); as well as 10 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren.

Across five generations, Ruth leaves behind a family whose lives were influenced by her strength, determination and example. She spent nearly a century caring for others through her nursing profession, serving her community, cultivating lasting friendships and living with remarkable independence. Her strong work ethic, resilience and commitment to staying active and involved remained with her throughout her life and will continue through the generations that follow her.

Celebration of Life held at “By His Grace Fellowship” 1110 Hwy 99W, Dundee, Oregon 97115 on September 19th, 2026 from 1:00 - 4:00pm.