JUPITER

After 30 years working Jupiter beach, lifeguard Rob Rogerson retired June 9 and is moving to the Virgin Islands to operate a charter sailboat.

Im leaving paradise for paradise, said the 56-year-old who grew up in Palm Beach Gardens.

Rogerson plans on buying a 25-foot sailboat. Over the years, he has vacationed in the islands and gotten to know the owners of the boat.

Whenever I visited the island, I would always rent that boat. Now, Im buying it. Its a dream come true, said Rogerson, a Jupiter resident.

Rogerson started as a lifeguard when he was 26. His title now is ocean lifeguard rescue boat operator and emergency medical technician.

Training other lifeguards and reaching out to the public have been Rogersons best assets, said Eric Call, executive director of Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation.

(Rob) loves teaching, educating and communicating with the public. Hes been an excellent lifeguard. He always stayed in great shape. Hes a dedicated employee. Hell be sorely missed, said Call.

The plan is to rent out the boat, which fits about six people. Hell take visitors out to nearby islands for day trips.

Well go out snorkeling, watch the sunsets, said, Rogerson, who plans on leaving in August.

In the meantime, Rogerson plans on stand-up paddling 50 miles on June 17 from Bimini to Florida toraise money for cystic fibrosis.

Hell take with him happy memories of Jupiter, he said.

No matter how many times I come in the Jupiter Inlet and Im guided by the lighthouse, it makes my heart jump when I see those home waters. It tells me that Im home, said Rogerson.

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After 30 years, retiring Jupiter lifeguard says he's leaving 'paradise' - Palm Beach Post