Edward Eugene Rogina

Edward Eugene Rogina

Edward Eugene Rogina was born in Lusk on Sept. 13, 1945, and died in Billings, Mont, of heart failure on Dec. 21, 2011.

Ed grew up in Lusk and in Douglas and spent his teenage years at the Boy's Ranch outside of Glenrock under the supervision of his mentor and friend, Capt. James Berry, and his wife, Annabelle, of the Salvation Army.

He lived primarilly in Douglas and Casper throughout his lifetime. In his younger years, Ed enjoyed working as a family photographer. He was the owner of Fat Ed's Cafe in Douglas in the 1980s and 90s. He spent most of his life in the trucking business working for Menter Sand & Gravel, C.R. England, and most recently with High Ball Trucking.

Ed enjoyed reading westerns and listening to Big Band music, and you could always find him in the kitchen. He could never make a small batch of anything. Many will remember him as the owner and operator of Fat Ed's Cafe. He would often say his food was "guaranteed not to kill, maim or blind." He especially enjoyed when small children would come dine at the restaurant. He would always try and make them smile.

Ed will be remembered by many as the man who gave them a second chance when nobody else would. You could see him dressing up as Santa and delivering Christmas food baskets to those who needed a helping hand. He would feed those who were hungry and clothe the needy, and he knew no stranger. He would talk your ear off if you let him. He took the scripture from Deuteronomy 10:18 to heart: "who executes justice for the orphan and the widow, and who loves the strangers, providing them with food and clothing."

Ed often hosted "orphan" Christmas dinners for those who had no nearby family; and often delivered a sack full of groceries to single mothers in need.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Emily (DuVall) Menter Rogina, Melvin Menter, Ronald Rogina and Gary "Allen" MaGehee. He is survived by ex-wife Dorreen of Little Chute, Wis.; daughter Dawn (Bangart) Caldwell and son-in-law Michael of Oconomowoc, Wis.; and daughter Catherine (Marble) Kellick and son-in-law Steve of Casper; sibling Willard Menter, James Menter, Marcia Ireton of Douglas, Nelta Ramirez of Casper, and Margo Pronger of Manville; grandchildren Ashley, Steven, Charles and Emma Kellick; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will take place in the spring in Douglas. A date to be announced in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in the name of Ed Rogina at Converse County Bank. Donations will benefit the Salvation Army. Ed never passed by a Salvation Army bucket without making a contribution.

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