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RONALD BOUGAN Obituary

Ronald J. Bougan of Park Ridge Ronald J. Bougan, 53, died Nov. 5, 2012, from injuries sustained from a hit and run accident in Des Plaines. A beloved son, brother, and uncle, Ronald is survived by parents, Sandra and George Christopherson; siblings, Richard Bougan, Patricia Bougan and Katherine Christopherson; nephew, Nikko; niece, Nemea; Aunt Jean and Uncle Jim Piette; numerous cousins; and girlfriend, Nancy. Ronald grew up in Park Ridge, where he graduated Maine South High School, receiving a bachelor's degree in mass communications from Western Illinois University in Macomb. Ronald worked in construction/landscaping, with an exceptional ability to create beauty. An incredible chef and big lover of animals, he often rode his bike and walked in nature. His many friends knew Ronald as a free-spirited, fun-loving man full of curiosity and warmth, with a gentle, giving way with seniors and children. Always smiling and expressing his love toward family members, Ronald was known for his mantra, "Be happy!" Services will be Sunday, Nov. 11, from 2 to 7 p.m., at Friedrichs Funeral Home, 320 W. Central Road, Mount Prospect. In lieu of flowers, a donation to a No Kill animal shelter in Ronald's, name would be appreciated. For information, call 847-255-7800 or visit www.FriedrichsFH.com.

Published by Daily Herald on Nov. 9, 2012.
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Happy birthday Boug!

Rich

Family

November 22, 2023

Miss you every day, big brother. I can't really believe it's been 11 years. Our cousin Susan is sending some native plants to us so we can plant a garden in your honor - with birdhouses and all. You would love it here so much - every time we make a new wildlife discovery, I imagine how you would embrace the awe-inspiring nature of it all. Ron, I just hope you are making a most beautiful adventure somewhere amazing...and that we will cross paths again some day. Love you. Your little sis, xxkc

Kathy

Family

November 6, 2023

On this 11th full year after your passing I honor your memory. Your family and friends all have felt less whole since you left us. But we all know that we too will pass on before too long ourselves, and you can bet we'll all come knocking to quickly reunite with your precious soul.

Richard Bougan

Family

November 5, 2023

Happy birthday Boug

Rich

Family

November 22, 2022

Hard to believe that Saturday will mark a full decade since your passing. We´re sure you´re spreading your loving soul in heaven. You must know your loving soul is continually shared in all our hearts and it always will be..

Richard Bougan

Family

November 3, 2022

Dearest Ronald,

November is always a tough month for us. I share a FB tribute on Nov. 5 (that dreaded date) and Nov. 22 (our celebration of your birth) every year, and your "fan" base is growing. Family and friends are able to share memories, and some perfect strangers write about how they feel they've grown to know you. I believe some people will think more than twice before getting into a car drunk, in your honor, and save a life in that moment. You would have LOVED Annie Puetz's memory of you, one I don't think I had ever known. It appears she had a little crush on you when we were kids. Ahahah. She remembers details of you and your "gorgeous girlfriend Perriann" in our foyer. I've been smiling a mile wide ever since.

Last night, per our ritual, both Chris and I bought lotto tickets in your spirit, and Chris brought me to Café Gratitude to toast your birthday. I told him the story of you saying "Pardon me, do you happen to have any Grey Poupon?" all night in downtown Chicago, and we had a good laugh. I mean....ALL. NIGHT. LONG. LOL.

Chris and I got engaged last Xmas eve, btw, and it hurts my heart that you won't physically be with us on our wedding day. You'll definitely be there in spirit, but this is a tough one for me. I loved how you and Chris immediately connected, and I know you guys would have been fast friends. You have so much in common, soulfully. I often imagine how much fun we would be having.

Also, a perfect stranger gifted me two small pieces of art yesterday (ON your birthday) - BIRDS. And I thought...that's Ron saying hello. I keep your bird whistle in the little Ron memoriam we created. We'll put these little canvases on a prominent place in our home, as a daily reminder of my beautiful big brother.

I miss you, big brother. And sending love and peace on your latest adventure.

Love, your little sis,
Katherine

Katherine Christopherson

Family

November 23, 2021

Dear Ron,

Your birthday is no longer a happy time, as it comes with with the sadness that you're no longer with us. However, we all still honor this day for all the good times and loving things that your birth blessed us all with.

Love, your brother and best friend Rich

Rich Bougan

Family

November 22, 2021

The best part of growing old is I´m getting closer to our heavenly reunion Ron. In the meantime, Nemea closes on her first home purchase and Nikko´s on a good track. We think of you often and I´m riding your old bike nearly every day in the Arizona sun. I´ll always love you and you´ll always be my best friend dear brother.

Rich Bougan

Family

November 4, 2021

Your spirit is with me always Ron. Godspeed from sunny Arizona.

-Your loving brother Rich

Richard Bougan

Brother

November 4, 2020

Hi big brother. November 5 is always a date I dread. I've been thinking about you all week, wishing so much you were here with us. I know exactly where your spirit would be during these tumultuous times, and often wish I could call you and do one of our rants. Miss you so much. So much. Sometimes, I'm pretty sure you're nearby - so in case I'm right about that - hi. And love you with all my heart. Love Always, your little sis.

Kathy Christopherson

Sister

November 3, 2020

Remembering you on your 61st birthday Ron. A lot has changed for me since your last birthday, but I'm sure you are aware from heaven. I followed your lead and moved to Arizona. In doing so, I reunited with Nemea and Nikko. Arizona is every bit as beautiful as you told me so many times after you experienced it. I often believe you'd be out here with us if you were still among us on this Earth. Though you are not here with us physically, you are here spiritually each and every day. We think of you always and continually recount the moments that made you a wonderful brother, uncle, son and friend. RIP brother.

Love,

Rich, Nikko & Memea

Richard Bougan

November 22, 2019

RON

REMEMBERING YOUR BIRTHDAY 11/22. SO WISH YOU WERE HERE TO CELEBRATE.

PS: WISH JERRY A HAPPY BDAY TODAY & SEND MY LOVE. MISS YOU BOTH!!

ALL MY LOVE, PATTY

PATRICIA BOUGAN

Sister

November 20, 2019

Dearest Ron,

Missing you so much today, like every day. I wrote a note to you here this morning and it never posted. Strange. Chris and I were having a good laugh, talking about how excited you always got over the simplest things. Like magic. Chris didn't know you had a semi-secret talent for drawing. He would have really urged you to sketch more.

A couple times a year, I post about you on social media, and it's almost as though perfect strangers have gotten to know you. They love your smile and spirit and lovingness, and feel the depth of loss your loved ones have experienced. I'll go get that ritualistic lotto ticket today, in your honor. I just wish you could go with me and laugh about the $2 donation to the state.

I love and miss you, big brother. Hopefully this note will post. If we're lucky, you'll get two! ;)

Your little sis, xxKath

Kathy Christopherson

November 5, 2019

Ronald, my beloved son, it broke my heart to lose you but you are always in my heart and by my side. Till we meet again dear son. Loving you always, Mother

Sandra Christopherson

Mother

November 5, 2019

RON-
I MISS YOU EVERYDAY BUT NOV. 5TH IS ALWAYS THE WORST MEMORY.

ALL MY LOVE LITTLE BROTHER, YOUR SISTER, PATTY

PATTY BOUGAN

November 4, 2019

Dear Ron,

Growing older is a double-edged sword Ron. Though I feel the aches and pains that come with age, I cherish the thought that every day brings me closer to a divine reunion with you at the gates of heaven. You are missed each and every day, but we will have an eternity to make up for lost time on Earth. I love you Boug and always will.

Your brother and best friend,

Rich

Rich Bougan

Brother

November 4, 2019

You'd be 60 today Boug. It's not the kind of "happy" we anticipated on your 60th birthday, but we all are thankful that you were born when you were and we shared our lives with you. I'm sure those that feel the same with you in heaven are honoring this day in a big way up there. Your precious soul is certainly being celebrated in our our hearts down here. love you Boug.

Rich Bougan

November 22, 2018

Miss you Ron. It's been 6 years to the day and nothing has changed. I, each of your family members, and all your close friends miss you everyday. Your spirit is with us all and it will never leave. That's quite a legacy. My greatest wish is that we will reunite in due time and be able to pall around throughout eternity. I promise you that his wish will never die until it realized. I love you boug.

Rich Bougan

November 5, 2018

Boug,

Cannot let this day go by without a birthday message. We had many good times and always had fun. Our bond will never end. Your friends Kevin and Rob send their best as we honored you today.

Love,

Rich (the other Boug)

Rich Bougan

November 22, 2017

November 5 - a date forever branded in my soul. The day we got the call that my beloved big brother, Ronald, had been killed by a drunk driver. It was 5 years ago today and yet, seems like it could have been 5 days ago. My heart is heavy. My mind full. Body a little weak. My brother Ron - spirited, warm, smiling, loud, silly, loving, complex, beautiful Ron - gone. Forever.

Every year, I post a message publicly. It's my little way of honoring Ron's life and spirit. It's also a reminder how precious life is. How absolutely essential it is that people don't get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol. How quickly one can end a life and tear apart others. What a deep loss one might cause over one careless decision.

I chose this pix of my two brothers when they were kids. Ron is on the left, and often how I remember him - innocent, smiley, vulnerable, with his entire life ahead of him. And my brother Rich, next to him, 14 months his senior, now wandering this life without his lifetime buddy. It breaks my spirit into a billion little pieces thinking about it. I likely wasn't even born yet, when this pix was taken. Yet, it's often how I remember Ron and all that he represents to me - and our family.

In this pain of loss (and I know everyone has it, or will have it soon enough) I often catch myself feeling that spirit and warmth of Ron inside myself. Is it the memory of his eyes and smile when he was saying something important to me? Or is it the part of my brother that resides in me, molecularly, spiritually, forever? Maybe both. And I'm filled with gratitude that Ron has left that piece of him to live and breathe in me, while I carry on in this plane of existence. He took a part of me along with him, but he left the best part of himself for me to cherish, celebrate, and share. And in that very moment, I feel lucky and very much alive.

I miss you, my beautiful brother. And sending love to you wherever you are - even to the part of you I know is right here, with me, forever.

Kathy Christopherson

November 5, 2017

Boug,

Still miss you each and everyday. Sorry I didn't get to this until several days after your birthday. As you know by now we've occupied with the passing of our dad. I truly believe you escorted him properly as he entered the gates of heaven. And I expect you to do the same, as we reunite with you one by one. I was so proud of the man you became and the angel you now are. I will keep your memory alive and be sure to say hello to your many friends at the annual Snowball Charity next week.

Love always,

Rich

Rich Bougan

November 24, 2016

REMEMBERING YOU ON YOUR BDAY & MISSING YOU ALWAYS! WATCH FOR DAD, HE STARTED HIS JOURNEY TO YOUR LOCATION YESTERDAY.

LOVE ALWAYS, YOUR SISTER PATTY

PATRICIA BOUGAN

November 22, 2016

Been thinking bout you all day long Ron. Been celebrating the day you were born Boug with fond memories and a brotherly love that transcends time. Your brother and best friend, Rich

Rich Bougan

November 22, 2015

Lindsey Miller

November 22, 2015

Happy Birthday, big brother. Thinking about you today and every day. Will light a candle and wish you love and happiness, wherever you may be. We miss you terribly.
Love, your lil sis, xxk

Kathy Christopherson

November 22, 2015

REMEMBERING YOUR BIRTHDAY ON 11/22/15. I SO WISH YOU WERE HERE! HAPPY BDAY RON.

ALL MY LOVE, YOUR SISTER PATTY

PATTY BOUGAN

November 21, 2015

It's so hard to believe it's been 3 years without you in our lives, Ronald. It seems like just yesterday, and then a million years ago, that we lost you. I think of you every day of my life, and imagine you're nearby and going to pop back in any day now. I imagine your smile and warmth and amazing laugh, and wish every day that my phone will ring and I'll hear your spirited voice on the other end. I miss you so much. There's a whole in my heart that will never be filled. But I know you'd love knowing that I share your spirit and bright light with so many others, and we all celebrate your life. I try to find all the pieces of you that are within me so I can bring you to life within me. I hope you're watching me, b/c then you'll know that I'm watching you back. I love you, Big Brother.

Kathy Christopherson

November 5, 2015

Time will never heal the pain of losing my brother and best friend. It's been three years of a world that's far worse without you in it Ron. I can only promise that I will cherish your memory each and every day until we reunite in ever lasting eternal bliss. I know you're already there and you're paving the way for us follow -Your loving brother Rich

Rich Bougan

November 5, 2015

My beloved son, Ronald, You lived your life with laughter and
enthusiasm showing kindness to all you new. Now you are a special Angel in Heaven but will forever be in my heart and
mind with loving memories till the end of time. Till we meet
again - Your loving mother

Sandra Christopherson

November 5, 2015

RON-THREE YEARS AGO YOU WERE UNFAIRLY TAKEN. I MISS YOU & YOUR SMILE EVERYDAY!

LOVE ALWAYS, YOUR SISTER PATTY

PATRICIA BOUGAN

November 5, 2015

Happy Birthday Boug! Miss you always and all days. Your loving and devoted brother Rich.

Rich Bougan

November 22, 2014

My dear beloved son, you gave all your family and friends a smile and
made them feel there was something special about them. Your in my
heart and prayers always and I look to the sky every night to say I love you and miss you. Your loving mother.

November 22, 2014

YOU'RE THOUGHT OF EVERYDAY BUT ESPECIALLY TODAY ON YOUR BIRTHDAY!

LOVE, PATTY

PATTY BOUGAN

November 22, 2014

Ron,
It's been 2yrs. since you were unfairly taken from us. Your death leaves a heartache no one can heal but love leaves memories no one can steal. You're so wonderful to think of but so hard to be without.

Miss you!

Love Always,

Your Sister Patty

Patty Bougan

November 6, 2014

Dear Ron,

Though your heart stop beating in our physical world two years ago on this day, the love we have for you will never stop. We continue to treasure so many warm memories of you, each and every day, and your precious soul lives within each and everyone of us. Please pave the way for each of us to reunite with you one by one for eternal bliss and togetherness. God bless.

Love Always,

Mom, Dad, Patty, Rich, Nikko, Nemea, Kathy & Chris

November 5, 2014

Ron! You've been with me all day, I carry your spirit and share your legacy with everyone I meet. I find my comfort in knowing your love and warmth and smile is part of me, and I know there are so many people who feel like they know you now. I miss my big brother more than words can ever express - but I think of you every day, and often imagine you are very close, facing me, telling me what you think. Today, you held my hand, while I talked all about you in a very important meeting. As fate would have it, the woman with whom I met had lost her sister to cancer, so we exchanged all sorts of stories. You are the glue of so much connectivity in our lives - especially in our own family. We love you and miss you and celebrate your spirit - until we meet again. Your little sister, xxKathy

November 5, 2014

Ron,

Your spirit is with us more than ever and will be all the way through eternity. I will never stop sharing the joy your life brought to us all and the special memories you left for all your friends and family.

Your devoted brother and best friend,

Rich

Rich Bougan

November 24, 2013

Happy Birthday, Ronaldo! We celebrated YOU and your life and amazing spirit last night - with food, music, nature, laughter, and a huge cotton candy with a marshmallow and candle on top! All the things you love. I love you so much and think of you every day. I know you're with me, big brother. Happy Birthday! xxKath

November 23, 2013

IN REMEMBRANCE OF YOUR BIRTHDAY, YOU ARE MISSED EVERY DAY BUT ESPECIALLY TODAY! MEMORIES OF A HAPPY BIRTHDAY

ALL MY LOVE, YOUR SISTER PATTY

PATRICIA BOUGAN

November 22, 2013

RON, MY LITTLE BROTHER, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. I WILL CHERISH ALL THE BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES WE SHARED.THOUGH WE ARE FAR APART, YOU WILL ALWAYS AND FOREVER BE ALIVE WITHIN MY HEART.

PATTY BOUGAN

February 1, 2013

He came in the library to check out movies all the time. Always had a smile and a warm greeting for those of us at the front desk. Just found out today-such a shock. I am so sorry for your loss.

Lisa Poirier

November 20, 2012

Ronnie was the light in our lives, full of love, passion, personality and curiosity. He was always the one who checked in on everyone, with an open heart, warmth and a big smile. He made us laugh and see the world from a unique point of view. Ron had the kind of wisdom one only gains from living life. He loved animals and had a particular fascination with all species of birds. He was kind, gentle and patient with the elderly and children. Ronnie was one of a kind. He was my big brother. He protected me. There are no words to describe the loss of such a beautiful and spirited big brother.

Kathy Christopherson

November 14, 2012

It's been years since we've seen Ron, but this picture (and this smile) remind us of the special person we new and enjoyed at WIU. He was a part of our lives for a short time but his soul touched our lives forever. Rest in peace friend.

Amy & Tom Hirsch

November 12, 2012

My thoughts and heart are with all of you.
If you're going through hell, keep going – Winston Churchill.

Ann Murphy

November 11, 2012

I saw Ron as a man with a huge capacity to love his family, friends and life. His extraordinary smile, generosity, intelligence, and authentic concern for others will always be remembered.

Sherry Julitz

November 11, 2012

Lord, Jesus, lovingly welcome into Your presence our deceased friend, Ron, who has completed his journey on this earth, and has gone to rest in the hope of rejoicing with You forever in Heaven. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and may Your perpetual light shine upon him!
Richie and family~ May God be with you during this tragic time. We were so blessed to have been together at our St Paul Reunion just a few weeks ago. RIP Ronny.

Liz Ciecko-Bartos

November 11, 2012

Sandy and George,
I have no words to express my deep sadness for you. No parent expects to suffer the loss of a child. When you get home to Ponce Inlet, know that you have many friends who love you and care about your pain.

Nancy

November 10, 2012

I cannot express the sadness I feel. Aunt Sandra, Uncle George, Rich, Patty, Kathy, family members. I am praying that the memories you have will carry you through this difficult time. I am so very thankful that I was able to celebrate Ron's 50th birthday with you all and to experience Ron's joyful soul. Ron will be missed. We will be thinking about you and sending our prayers and love. Love Susan & Aaron

Susan Piette

November 10, 2012

The smile says it all - enjoying life, every day, every minute - what a novel idea. What we lost, Heaven gained - say Hi to my Mom, Ron - we'll all be together soon enough.

Lindsey Miller

November 10, 2012

That smile says it all - going through life having fun - what a novel idea. Nobody did it better. I love you, Ron and I'll see you again soon enough - Say "hi" to my Mom

Lindsey Miller

November 10, 2012

May god's peace be with you.

Jack & MaryLee Sturno

November 10, 2012

The Magic of the English Garden

"Build it and they will come" - "I have a dream", but how, what and who will help me? A fresh canvas waiting to be painted.... who knew that bumping into old friends would be the beginning of a beautiful friendship that would blossom into a deep love.

A work of art was created when 2 minds came together and envisioned a backyard setting to be enjoyed and admired.

Ron was up for the task at hand and with a vision, long hours and several runs to Menards the canvas came to life.

The English Garden has brought many hours, days and evenings of enjoyment - a respite in the midst of the hustle and bustle of daily life - as Ron would say - A place to "stop and smell the roses".

Ron, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all of the love and extra effort you put into creating my backyard paradise.

Forever in my Heart,

The Girl Next Door

November 10, 2012

Thinking of you and your family, Kathy, sending love and prayers. Diane Penny

Diane Penny

November 9, 2012

Rich:
Our love and thoughts are with you and your family during this most difficult time. We will always remember Ron's gentle nature and his exuberant personality. We hope your wonderful memories of Ron will bring you comfort and peace in the difficult days ahead.
Much Love,
Kevin and Robyn MacNab

Kevin & Robyn MacNab

November 9, 2012

I first met Ron in Jr. High but it was in the last several years that we became close friends.

He was a man of simple means yet lived life fully and gave of himself generously. He was a great son, brother, uncle and friend. I will always remember his smile and laughter and will miss him very much.

Rob Self

November 9, 2012

Ron you will be missed terribly. He was a great friend. Always there for us whenever we needed a friend. He took very good care of our dogs and loved every minute of doing it. He always smiled when he was around us. He made my kids laugh on several occassions. I hope he is looking down from Heavan smiling, knowing how wonderful many people felt he was.

Angie & Tom Garvey

November 9, 2012

Our wishes to the family, prayers and thoughts sent your way. My GOD bring you peace and calm during this terrible time. Ron was a wonderful person , that was so full of joy and happiness..... Love to Sandy and George. Love the Johnson Family Lyder, Simone, Cearra and Lincoln

November 9, 2012

Ron,
You were always a great friend. I will miss you.
Bano

Steve Banach

November 9, 2012

God Bless you all, I remember him as such a kind fun spirit, his laughter contagious! Know that I send you all my love and prayers!
Sandi Bergman Shy

Sandra Bergman Shy

November 9, 2012

You lit up our life Ron. You will be missed, but never forgotten.

Rich Bougan

November 9, 2012

Dear Ron,

You will always be my brother and my best friend. Your precious soul will live within me forever.

Love,

Rich

Rich Bougan

November 9, 2012

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