La Donna Rogers, 96, of La Habra, California, passed away on May 29, 2026. Born May 13, 1930 in Toledo, Iowa, to Earl and Hazel Smith, La Donna grew up on their farm surrounded by family and friends, where she developed the gracious, giving spirit and steadiness that would define her entire life.

Two years after graduation from Toledo High School La Donna married the love of her life, Charles Rogers. They built a life together on a foundation of mutual love and respect which they shared for 70 years. Mom made a home for them and always had a garden of pretty posies. She went on to make several places home for them when Charles’ work transferred him to California, back to Iowa, and ultimately to Northridge, California in 1979 where they lived for 41 years. In all of those moves, she was an anchor to their sons, Sid and Phil, and guided them with great love and kindness.

La Donna made the best of their many moves joining an organization called the Welcome Wagon to meet new people and welcome others into the community. She became an outstanding pie baker to Charles’ delight and a ubiquitous cookie maker that pleased her family for decades. Golf became a favorite pastime for Charles and La Donna. She was a member and officer of the Knowlwood Women’s Golf group for many years enjoying the outdoors and comradery.

She was predeceased by her husband, Charles, her parents, Earl and Hazel, her brothers, LeRoy, Dale, and Jerry and her sister Dalene.

She leaves her sons Sid (Nancy) and Phil (Nancy), and her sisters, Earlene and Karna, many nieces and nephews, as well as four grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Her legacy of kindness and devotion will continue in the lives of all who loved her.

A Memorial Service will be held July 25, 2026 at 11:00 AM at the Grinnell United Methodist Church. Interment was held at Woodlawn Cemetery in Toledo.