Alicia Rotgers

On January 9th, 2026, Alicia Ruth Rotgers passed away peacefully. Alicia was born on June 1, 1960, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and was adopted in 1960 by Dr. James Cather and Jane (Julien) Cather.

Growing up, Alicia was active in school and gymnastics and developed a lifelong curiosity about the world. She spent many summers accompanying her father, and family, on his teaching sabbaticals through the University of Michigan. Some of her fondest memories were traveling to and living in the Netherlands, France, Hawaii, Bermuda, and Woods Hole. Alicia shared a special bond with her younger brother, Craig. They watched out for one another throughout childhood, and that close sibling connection remained strong well into adulthood.

Alicia graduated from Huron High School in 1978 and went on to attend Kalamazoo College for her undergraduate studies in Education, graduating in 1982. She later earned her Master’s degree in Psychology from Eastern Michigan University in 1985. That same year, Alicia married William Rotgers.

Alicia became a devoted mother through adoption—welcoming her son, Michael, in 1988 and her daughter, Jennifer, in 1991. She loved motherhood deeply and was unwavering in her support of her children’s active lives. She gave countless rides to practices, attended every game, band concert, and remained an engaged, encouraging presence in all of their pursuits. Above all, Alicia fostered a loving home and encouraged her children to follow their dreams.

Service to others was a defining part of Alicia’s life. From 1985 until her retirement in 2018, she worked throughout Kalamazoo County as a substitute teacher. Her love of education and faith continued through her longtime involvement at Westwood United Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday School and remained an active member for more than 30 years. She cherished the community she built there; participating in “The Lunch Bunch”, book club, women’s Bible study, and numerous other groups. Most notably, she found great joy volunteering at the church’s Free Store alongside her friends.

When she wasn’t teaching or volunteering, Alicia could often be found listening to The Beatles, playing the piano, petting any dog she met, or quietly reading a book.

Alicia was preceded in death by her parents and her ex-husband. She is survived by her brother, Craig (Katie); her children, Michael (Jessica) and Jennifer Angerman (Andrew); her beloved grandsons, Jackson and Maddox; as well as two nieces, one nephew, and a grand-niece.

A memorial service will be held at Westwood United Methodist Church on January 16th, 2026 at 12:00 PM with a luncheon to follow afterwards. A visitation will occur at 11:00 AM. Donations may be made to Butterfly Oasis of Kalamazoo or the Westwood Neighborhood Free Store. Celebrate Alicia's life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on her dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, (269) 375-2900.