1933 - 2016
After a long illness, Paul Rogers passed away on June 13, 2016 in Ojai. He was born in Toronto, Canada, and was a long-time resident of Ojai.
Paul's love of grounds, gardens, and outdoor sports brought him to California. After graduating California State Polytechnic University, Pomona with a Bachelor of Science degree in Horticulture, he and his family moved to Ojai in 1967. He was the Assistant Grounds Superintendent at the Ojai Valley Inn.
Later Paul joined Kellogg's Supply, a landscape supply company headquartered in Los Angeles. His career spanned 30 years with Kellogg's. He was their horticulture expert. As a problem sover his advice was sought after by many nationally known icons such as Dodger Stadium, the Los Angeles Coliseum, universities, and the landscape industry.
For the later part of his nearly 50 years career, many in Ojai knew Paul as a consulting Arborist. He loved taking care of trees, including native trees, and especially oak trees. He was a trusted partner with the City of Ojai, the County of Ventura, architects, landscape architects, contractors, conservationists, and countless homeowners.
He enjoyed helping others understand the importance of the natural environment and the need for urban forests. He taught at Ventura College and Moorpark College on horticulture subjects. He authored many articles, aided government with oak tree preservation standards, and helped set the bar for his profession.
Paul enjoyed sports since the time he played ice hockey in his youth with his brothers. Paul was an avid tennis player and a good one! He was a nationally ranked player in his senior years. He was a 40-year member of the Ojai Valley Athletic Club and a long time volunteer at the annual Ojai Tennis Tournament.
Paul was a humble man.
In memory of Paul, the family suggests friends plant a tree.
Paul is survived by his wife Kathleen, son Michael Rogers of Oak Park, California and West Yellowstone, Montana, daughter Paula Rogers of Los Angeles, sister Ann Marie, and brothers Joe, Ted, and Bill of Ontario, Canada.
Arrangement for Paul are under the care of the family-owned Joseph P. Reardon Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ventura, California.