Rodger Henry Howard DeGroat

Rodger Henry Howard DeGroat, 77, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2026.

Rodger was born in Milford, Delaware, and spent his childhood in the town of Federalsburg, Maryland, graduating from Colonel Richardson High School in 1967. He later served his country in the United States Army. While stationed in Kansas, he met his wife, Kathie. Together they returned to Federalsburg, where they built their life and raised their family.

Family was an important part of Rodger's life, and the people he loved remained at the heart of it throughout the years.

Rodger was preceded in death by his loving parents, Ruben and Helen DeGroat of Federalsburg; his beloved brother, Keven DeGroat; his beloved wife, Kathie DeGroat; and his son-in-law, T.R. Pleasants.

He is survived by his daughter, Wendy Pleasants; granddaughters, Allison Pleasants and Madison Pleasants; great-granddaughter, Romilly Lane; brother, Terry DeGroat and wife Liz; sister-in-law, Donna DeGroat; beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and his companion, Sandy Ruark.

Rodger spent much of his working career with DuPont before retiring. Outside of work, he enjoyed the simple things that brought people together and formed friendships that lasted throughout his life.
Bowling was a longtime favorite, and Rodger especially enjoyed his Tuesday and Thursday leagues. Over the years, he formed many friendships through bowling and looked forward to the camaraderie, laughter, and time spent with his league friends each week.

Rodger also found a love of golf, a pastime made even more special by the friendships that came along with it. He shared many rounds with his best friend, Jack, and along the way formed great friendships with his friends down south. He especially enjoyed their golf adventures to Myrtle Beach, filled with laughter, stories, and memories that lasted far beyond the final round.
More than anything, Rodger will be remembered for the relationships he built, the people he loved, and the many memories he created with family and friends throughout his life.

Rodger leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a family who loved him deeply. May he be reunited with Kathie, his parents, his brother, T.R., and all those he loved who went before him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Rodger's memory to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.