WARREN - Rodger L. Mease, 67, of Warren, passed away Saturday, Aug. 4, 2012, at his residence.
Rodger was born Feb. 17, 1945, in Philipsburg, Pa., the son of the late Dorsey and Frances John Mease.
Rodger came to Warren in 1968 and retired from Diamond Steel Corp. in Boardman as a structural iron worker after 25 years. For the last four years, Rodger had been a receptionist and volunteer at Hillside Hospital.
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Mease
In 1996, he was the recipient of the Hillside Rehabilitation Spirit Award Official Proclamation from the Congress of the United States.
In the fall of 1986, Rodger suffered a fall which left him a paraplegic. He worked diligently at rehabilitating himself and helping others like him. He had since established a reputation as an advocate for the disabled throughout the Valley. Rodger lent his expertise in the construction of ramps for public buildings, as well as fighting for more accessible buildings for the disabled.
Rodger had also been instrumental in establishing recreational groups and easing the burden of transportation problems for disabled individuals. Throughout his service, Rodger proved to be a successful spirit in the struggle to help individuals with physical challenges.
Rodger had served in the United States Air Force. He was a member of St. Mary's Church and Workers Local 207.
He is survived by two sons, Brian M. (Heather) Mease and Gregory A. Mease, both of Warren; four grandchildren, Jocelyn, Brian Jr. and Justin Mease and Tyler Snyder; a brother, Dennis (Dixie) Mease of Houston; and a sister, Jane (Dave) Hines of Houtzdale, Pa.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Carol Ann Sherokee Mease, whom he married Aug. 8, 1970, and who passed away Dec. 18, 2002; and a sister, Mary Louise Mease.
Calling hours will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday and 9:30 to 10 a.m. Thursday at the Peter Rossi & Son Memorial Chapel, where a service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, with the Rev. Bernard Schmalzreid.
Burial will be at All Souls Cemetery, Cortland.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the St. Mary's Church, 301 High St. N.E., Warren, OH 44481.
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