Life Tributes for the week of 12/25/18

Maria Virginia (Gina) Rogers

Maria Virginia Rogers fought a long and valiant battle against Alzheimer’s disease before leaving this world, with family at her side, Dec. 13, 2018. Gina was born Aug. 2, 1945 in El Paso, “Don’t mess with Texas” and likely was one of the Dallas Cowboy’s biggest fans!

The wife of a Vietnam veteran she raised four children with patience, understanding and so much love. Known for her big hugs and gentle manner she was not just “Mom” to her own children but so many others. Gina would always go out of her way to make everyone feel comfortable and welcome.

Throughout her youth Gina traveled abroad to Europe, India and the Middle East. Those experiences, helped by her already open hearted nature, allowed her to become educated in different cultures and languages. Growing up in a close knit Mexican-American family, her faith was very important to her. Spanish was her first language, learning English when she entered public school. She also spoke some German and even a bit of Arabic.

While working at Sierra Army Depot, Gina helped soldiers stationed there to further their education and was very proud of all she accomplished during her government service. During her lifetime she also worked as a preschool teacher and English as a Second Language instructor. She was encouraging, supportive, and dedicated to her students, allowing them to do their best and reach their full potential. She was also an accomplished gardener and avid marathoner.

Her lighthearted and silly sense of humor always put others at ease. And, while life threw her some curve balls, Gina always approached things with a positive outlook and unwavering faith.

Gina is survived by her husband of 28 years, Larry Rogers; and their children, Jennifer (David) Pack, Christine (Ron) Smith, Catherine (Charlie) Schuck and John David Plese in addition to her brothers, Michael (Sherrie) Rosnack and Steve (Stacey) Rosnack. Gina also has nine grandchildren. “Abuelita!” is how they referred to her, usually at the top of their lungs and with great joy. Preceding her in death were her mother, Reynalda and father, Joe Rosnack; and her sister, Lisa Grimes.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 29 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Susanville with internment to follow at Diamond Crest Cemetery. A donation in her name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Northern California and Northern Nevada, 639 Isbell Road, Suite 240, Reno, Nevada 89509 or as an expression of sympathy the family asks that you donate to victims of the Paradise Camp Fire or to a charity of your choice.

Alline Golda Axley

Alline Golda Axley, of Susanville California passed away with her family by her side in her home in Susanville, California on Dec. 18, 2018.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dillon Axley; son, Ronald Axley; and daughter, Arlene Fern Friend.

Mrs. Axley was 99 years old. She moved to Susanville with her family in 1929 from Utah to take over running the Cayocca ranch by Bass Hill.

She is survived by her son, Donald, of Carmichael, California; her grandsons, Eric Friend and Jason Friend; and several grandchildren. Mrs. Axley attended Lassen High School. She married Dillon Axley in 1942. He and George Taylor had a building contracting company. I would like to extend my appreciation to her caregivers, Susie Martinez, who did such wonderful care for my mother; and Jack Kessler, who for the past years was a lifesaver; and to Robyn Johnson, who gave special care.

Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 21 at Diamond Crest Cemetery.