Rodger Jehlicka passed away early Thursday morning on April 3, 2025, with his wife Liz beside him. Born on Sept. 17, 1947, in St. Cloud, Minn., Rodger lived a memorable and impactful life, carving a legacy of admiration and commendation, touching the lives of many along the way.
Growing up in the Twin Cities, Rodger was a three-sport athlete in the likes of football, baseball and wrestling. They, along with sports in general, remained a cornerstone in Rodger’s life.
After graduating from Park High School in Cottage Grove, Minn., Rodger attended Winona State University, where he excelled in both football and wrestling. He capped off his college career by earning All-American Honors in wrestling.
He married Elizabeth in 1970, going on to have their two children, Perry and Nicole. Raising them primarily in Alamosa, Colo., Rodger resided as the Adams State University Wrestling Coach and Athletic Director. He coached Adams State to a national title in 1990 and was inducted into the Adams State Hall of Fame, the NAIA Hall of Fame and the RMAC Hall of Fame.
Rodger spent parts of his later life in Lancaster, Calif., where he coached football with his son Perry. He would then go on to retire in Colorado Springs, to be closer to his daughter Nicole and her children.
His wife Elizabeth, as well as his children and grandchildren go on to survive him.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jodie.
The family is holding a Celebration of Life at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Colorado Springs on May 3 at 11 a.m., with a reception following at Trinity Brewing (located off Garden of the Gods Road).
Gifts in memory of Rodger may be made to the Rodger Jehlicka Memorial, supporting the program he loved — Adams State Wrestling, by clicking https://secure.qgiv.com/for/wrestl/ or checks can be mailed to ASU Foundation, 208 Edgemont Blvd. Suite 3080 Alamosa, CO 81101. Please list Men's Wrestling on the memo line of your check.
