The matriarch of the Rogers family and co-founder of Rogers Communications (RCI) has died at
age 83.
Loretta Rogers, the wife of Ted Rogers, had served as a corporate director at the
telecommunications company since 1964. In a statement, Edward Rogers, Loretta’s son and
current Chair of Rogers Communications, expressed dismay at her death.
“She lived a full and vibrant life and we, like all those who knew her, will deeply miss her
leadership and guidance,” reads the statement.
Loretta Rogers’ passing comes after a tumultuous period in the family’s time as the most
influential family in the Canadian telecommunications industry.
Last year, Loretta joined her daughters Melinda and Martha in backing former CEO Joe Natale
in a dramatic boardroom battle – instigated by Edward Rogers – to oust Natale.
Ultimately, the battle was decided in the British Columbia Supreme Court, which backed Mr.
Rogers ability to determine management at the firm. Natale was replaced by current CEO Tony
Staffieri.
That decision was a result of Ted Rogers’ control of the family trust, which was set up to guide
the company after his death in 2008.
Loretta Rogers was a member of that 10-person family trust, and it is unclear who will replace
her on its advisory committee, or when. The company is currently in the midst of an attempted
$20 billion acquisition of Shaw Communications (SJR), which is going through regulatory
reviews.
Rogers stock is flat this year at $61.29 a share.
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