March 25, 2024
Celia peacefully passed away in her home on April 25, 2024, in Chilliwack, BC surrounded by her loved ones. She was 92 years old.
She is survived by her husband of almost 66 years, Dr. Herbert Derrick Rogers. Her family devotion will always be remembered by her children Claire, Alison, Victoria (Kim), Marcus and Quentin. Grandchildren Tristan, Brook and Madison adored their loving Grandma (whose knitting needles were always flying to make everyone beautiful sweaters over the years).
Celia was born in Hemsworth, Yorkshire England to George and Ethel Asher, the youngest of four children. During WWII she had a happy childhood in the English countryside. She was an accomplished young pianist and succeeded in passing a scholarship exam to attend Hemsworth Grammar School (progressing through this ancient school to become a Prefect).
Following graduation Celia entered the Nursing Training program of the General Infirmary at Leeds (LGI) to become a State Registered Nurse (SRN). She remained at the LGI and had a distinguished nursing career becoming the Senior Sister on the Neurosurgical Operating Staff.
In 1957 Celia married Dr. H. Derrick Rogers and three years later immigrated to Edmonton, Alberta with the Canadian Armed Forces (Derrick serving as a Medical Officer at the Western Command Headquarters). Despite leaving family and friends in the UK, they truly enjoyed life on the Military Base and its supportive community.
The 60s were a happy, busy decade for Celia raising four children under the age of five in Victoria, B.C....and in 1970 being blessed with a fifth baby in Edmonton, AB. Shortly after, Celia and Derrick settled in Chilliwack to open a medical practice which Celia successfully managed for over three decades.
After a busy day at the office, Celia's energy did not lull. She rang the dinner bell each summer evening to summon her children and pets from the garden, tree fort, or driveway littered with Mini Cooper parts. It was then time to supervise their homework, piano, flute, clarinet, French horn, and saxophone studies.
Little fingers were kept busy being taught to crochet and knit and the littlest were then tucked in bed and sung tender lullabies. Celia's commitment to her husband and children was profound.
What defined Celia in her middle years was truly her musical passion and service. She was a flautist and orchestra board member with the Chilliwack Community Band, Mt. Cheam Chamber Orchestra, Chilliwack Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, and the Chilliwack Metropolitan Orchestra. Many of her loving friends are also musicians and will miss their days of practicing and performing together.... followed by cups of tea and intelligent conversation.
Celia's other passions included opera, theatre, and reading: Mozart, Puccini, Shakespeare, Paddington, and Peter Rabbit were also considered dear friends.
Celia led a life filled with grace. Living by the "Golden Rule" she showed her kindness to all in her gentle ways. As her battle with Parkinson's progressed her stoicism and gratitude to her medical support team was evident. Celia's smile, twinkling eyes and words of gratitude shone brightly to all. Celia's PT called her a "Spark of Sunshine" and so many caring people helped bring joy to her final years.
Special thanks to Fraser Health Caregivers and Nurses, Netcare Friends, Dr. Wollf, Dr. Markey, Marilou, and Mariela.
A celebration for the Life of Celia is planned for Friday, May 10th at 2:00 pm. All are welcome for tea at the Coast Hotel, Chilliwack. In lieu of flowers donations to the Salvation Army and SPCA are appreciated.
Service Details
2:00 PM