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Mark "Buck" Rogers, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and decorated military veteran, passed away peacefully at his Boerne, Texas, residence on October 14, 2023. He was 70 years old. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on December 16, 1952, Buck was the loving son of Stanley and Judith Rogers. He is survived by his wife, Suzanne; their daughters, Megan (Adam) and Jennifer; son, Michael (Jessica); and six cherished grandchildren: Emilee, Madeline, Wyatt, Paige, Luke, and Chase. He is also survived by his mother, Judith; and sister, Jane (Steve). Buck was preceded in death by his father, Stanley and brother, Paul. Buck's life was marked by incredible accomplishments and a deep commitment to service. He attended Don Bosco High School before embarking on a remarkable journey of education and military service. He was a proud graduate of the United States Air Force Academy and the University of Southern California. Buck was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force in 1975, and his illustrious career took him around the world and into the skies. He served as a fighter pilot from 1975 to 2001, flying a variety of aircraft, including F-4s, F-5s, F-16s, and F-15Es. Notable assignments included serving as an Aggressor pilot from 1980 to 1983, being a member of CHECKMATE from 1988 to 1990, and deploying in support of Operations DESERT SHIELD and DESERT STORM in 1990 to 1991. He served as the Commander of the 492d Fighter Squadron from 1993 to 1995 and flew combat missions in support of Operation DENY FLIGHT in 1994. His dedication led to his role as Commander of the 35th Operations Group from 1996 to 1998. Buck's service in the Air Force was marked by exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to his country. Following his retirement as a Colonel in 2001, Buck embarked on a second career as a FedEx Pilot and First Officer, flying until 2017. He also dedicated his time as a Kendall County Appraisal District Board Member and was actively involved in the Kendall County Republican Party, serving as Treasurer and Chairman. Outside of his professional achievements, Buck was a devoted family man who enjoyed spending time and traveling with his wife, Suzie, and visiting with his beloved children and grandchildren. Buck's sense of humor and love for life were evident in his off-key singing, giant bear hugs, mentorship of his children (sometimes unsolicited), love of reading, and his appreciation for fine wine, a good cigar, and a glass of scotch. He had many passions, but the largest, second only to his family, was the game of golf. Buck traveled the world playing (and cursing) many courses. It was a game that kept him in touch with friends throughout his life, and where he felt challenged, exhilarated and at peace. Buck Rogers was a remarkable individual whose legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the community he served so faithfully. A memorial service to celebrate Buck's life will be held at 2:00 pm on October 21, 2023, at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Association of Graduates, United States Air Force Academy at www.usafa.org or the Cibolo Center for Conservation at www.cibolo.org in his honor. Rest in peace, Buck, and may your memory continue to inspire us all. To leave condolences for the family, visit www.ebesnberger-fisher.com. Ebensberger Fisher Funeral Home | 17 October 2023
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