Ronald Michael Bogardus, a devoted husband and family man, passed away on January 15, 2026, at the age of 77. Born on November 23, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, Ronald is remembered for his loving spirit and strong family ties. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Laura Jean Lyons Bogardus, along with their daughter, Jessica Adriana Bogardus, and granddaughter, Cora Lynn Fesler.
Ronald was the son of Jack Earnest Bogardus and Evelyn Irene Bogardus, and the fourth of five children. He grew up in Illinois and briefly in Indiana, attending public schools and later graduating from Lane Tech Prep in 1966, an all-boys high school in Chicago. His academic journey continued at the University of Illinois, where he completed three semesters before eventually earning a Bachelor of Arts in Literature through online courses.
In the early 1970s, Ronald, along with his brother Jack Jr., embarked on a road trip that would change his life. They visited a friend in Boulder, Colorado, only to find he had relocated to California. Captivated by the Golden State, Ronald decided to stay and build a life there. He married, welcomed his daughter, and established deep roots in California, where he ultimately passed away.
Ronald’s legacy is further enriched by his surviving family members, including his sister, Vicki Lee Roche, and brother, Richard James Bogardus, who resides in Sacramento, California. He is also preceded in death by his brother Jack Jr. and sister Diane Marie Woolsey, along with his parents. Ronald leaves behind a network of nieces, nephews, and cousins across California, Illinois, and Indiana who will cherish his memory.
Funeral Services and Memorials
Funeral services are scheduled for February 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at the McCune Garden Chapel located at 212 Main Street, Vacaville, CA 95688. Following the service, Ronald will be laid to rest at the Vacaville-Elmira Cemetery, situated at 522 Elmira Road, Vacaville, CA 95687.
In honor of Ronald, those wishing to pay tribute may send flowers or consider planting a living memorial in his name. His family invites all who knew him to celebrate his life and the impact he made on those around him.
