Marja-Leena Tolvanen Rogers Obituary (1945

In loving memory of Marja-Leena Tolvanen Rogers. She was born in Helsinki, Finland on Nov 18, 1945 to Valto and Irene Tolvanen. At age 11, she immigrated to British Columbia, Canada with her parents and younger sister, Sirpa. Soon after, her family was introduced to the Gospel, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and they were baptized. Throughout her life, she exemplified the love of our Savior and was a bright light in all of the lives she touched. It was that same beautiful spirit that inspired church leaders to cast her as Eve in one of the first temple films. Shortly after finishing school in Canada, Marja-Leena attended Brigham Young University, USA, where she met, fell in love, and married Francis Max Rogers in the Salt Lake City Temple. She would become a cherished companion and best friend to her husband for 52 years. Their eternal family grew to include five beautiful children: Chaunine Joy, Michael Francis, Cheree Elise, David Spencer and Christopher Mark, who have gifted her nine treasured grandchildren. After finishing her bachelor’s degree at BYU, Marja-Leena and her husband Francis, along with newly-born daughter, Chaunine, moved to the badlands of the Navajo Nation to teach school. It was no British Columbia, but her commitment to the students turned it into a joyful experience. From there, she moved with her family to Brigham City, Utah, before permanently settling in Provo, Utah. Marja-Leena’s career ranged from being an Executive Assistant for various companies, such as Novell, highlighted by being a Museum Docent for the Ramses Exhibit and an Assistant Administrator of the Earth Science Museum, chaired by Wade Miller. These roles complimented her passion for learning and ancient history. Her desire for knowledge had no bounds. She loved studying all things, past, present and future. Her interests ranged from birds and genealogy, to writing family histories and biographies. Marja-Leena’s brilliant mind was always searching for more. She not only loved learning, she loved everyone she worked with. She had little desire to be in the spotlight or seek recognition. Her sincere interest in others, love, kindness, and generosity were given freely to those who were fortunate enough to cross paths with her. One could say that both her purpose and passion in life was to love. As a loving caring wife, mother, grandmother and friend to all, she will be sorely missed. Unfortunately due to the pandemic, funeral services will be a very limited gathering by invitation only. The services will be recorded and a link will be shared on social media for those who wish to view it. In the future when large group gatherings can safely happen again we will have a celebration of her life. We look forward to being able to share that moment with all of you. If you prefer, in lieu of flowers, please send a donation to The Primary Children’s Hospital or The Huntsman Cancer Institute.