Michael John Meneley Rogers, a beloved husband and a dedicated engineer, passed away in his sleep on October 6, 2025, at the age of 36. He was surrounded by his wife, Carina, and his mother, Marianne Rogers, as the full Harvest Moon shone brightly. Michael’s life was marked by both remarkable achievements and profound challenges, battling a hereditary disease that shaped his journey.
Born on May 2, 1989, in Santa Monica, California, Michael was considered a “miracle baby.” His father, John Meneley, was gravely ill at the time of his birth and passed away when Michael was just four months old. Tragically, Michael inherited the same fatal genetic condition, Gardner’s Syndrome, that had claimed the lives of his father and an older brother at young ages. His mother moved them to Bishop, California, just before Michael’s second birthday, seeking a fresh start.
Michael’s childhood was enriched when his mother married Doug Rogers, who embraced him as his own son. Throughout his schooling, Michael demonstrated a passion for learning and community service. He excelled academically, winning the California State Veteran’s essay award on Americanism for two consecutive years. A talented musician, he played the baritone saxophone in the high school band and graduated with honors from Bishop Union High School in 2007.
Recognizing the importance of character development, Michael achieved the esteemed rank of Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America, earning more than twice the required merit badges and receiving four Eagle Palms. His commitment to the community earned him a commendation from Mayor John Young of Bishop.
With aspirations to become an engineer, Michael enrolled at the University of Nevada Reno (UNR) to study electrical engineering. However, his academic journey was interrupted by a serious surgery at UCLA Medical Center and subsequent treatments for a large inoperable cancerous tumor diagnosed shortly after. Despite the challenges, including chemotherapy and numerous hospitalizations, Michael returned to his studies and ultimately graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering, achieving a high GPA.
Following his graduation, Michael worked at two engineering firms in Reno before being recruited by Tesla. For six years, he contributed his skills at the Tesla plant in Sparks, Nevada, where he was respected by colleagues and made lasting friendships. His passion for engineering was matched by his diverse hobbies, which included masterfully building with Lego, 3D printing, and indulging in his love for science fiction and music.
In 2016, Michael met Carina, who would become the love of his life. They married in 2022, enjoying a joyful partnership that included the addition of a rescue dog named Allen, honoring Michael’s father, Douglas Allen Rogers. Their bond was characterized by mutual admiration and happiness, even as they faced the trials of Michael’s ongoing health issues.
Michael’s health deteriorated over the past year, culminating in a life-altering surgery at UCLA Medical Center. Tragically, shortly after, Doug Rogers passed away, adding to the emotional burden Michael carried. Despite his struggles, he remained humble, seldom voicing his pain, and continued to seek new treatments in hopes of extending his life with Carina.
He is survived by his wife, Carina, his mother, Marianne Rogers, and a network of friends and family who cherished him. A memorial service to honor Michael John Meneley Rogers will take place on November 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM in the Sierra Room of the Peppermill Resort Hotel in Reno, Nevada.
Michael’s story is one of resilience, love, and the relentless pursuit of hope, traits that will be remembered by all who knew him.
