Kenneth L. Bogan

Kenneth Lee Bogan, 56, of Hampstead, passed away on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at New Hanover Regional Medical Center, surrounded by his wife and children.

Born on March 9, 1969, in Lorain, Ohio, Ken was raised in Vermilion, Ohio, where he graduated from Vermilion High School.

Ken loved his family deeply and would do anything he could to help them. He adored his wife of 33 years, his children, and his grandchildren—they were his world. He loved meeting new people and never passed up an opportunity for a good conversation.

Ken had a strong passion for serving his country and community. In 1987, between his junior and senior years of high school, he joined the Army Reserves and completed basic training. After graduating, he served in the U.S. Army from June to September 1987. However, Ken quickly realized the Army wasn't the right fit—he was a Marine through and through. In May 1988, he joined the United States Marine Corps, proudly serving until he was medically discharged in November 1997.

Later that year, Ken and his wife Angie made the decision to stay in North Carolina and moved to Hampstead, where they raised their two sons to be kind, humble, and respectful—always treating others as they would want to be treated.

In 1998, Ken began his second calling: firefighting. Over a 25-year career, he served both as a volunteer and professional firefighter, eventually becoming an instructor. Ken was passionate about learning everything he could, and equally passionate about teaching others—near and far—what he knew. He found great joy in watching others apply what he taught them, whether in their careers or in daily life.

In January 2013, Ken medically retired from the Wilmington Fire Department. However, he continued to volunteer until his full retirement in 2024 from the Town of Surf City Fire Department. Throughout his career, Ken also volunteered with the Hampstead, Sloop Point, and Atkinson Fire Departments, dedicating countless hours to serving and training others.

Ken loved the outdoors—especially camping—and deeply respected nature. He led both Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts for many years, teaching survival skills and a love for the wilderness while supporting Devan as he worked toward his Eagle Scout. He was also Jared’s biggest cheerleader in theater and during hip-hop dance competitions. Ken was incredibly proud of both of his sons.

Ken is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Angie Hudson Bogan of Hampstead, NC; his sons, Devan Bogan (Kristina) of Lincolnton, NC, and Jared Bogan of Wilmington, NC; and his two cherished grandchildren, Elizabeth and Braxton. He is also survived by his beloved dog, Macie; his mother, Joan Carol Botamer Bogan of New Boston, OH; his sisters, Coleen Kosan (Ted) of Portsmouth, OH, and Angie Bogan (Zach) of Searcy, AK; his brother, Andrew Bogan (Melissa) of Searcy, AK; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, William Earl Bogan of Lorain, OH.

A Celebration of Life for Ken will be held on Monday, May 12, at 11 a.m. at Northside Church in Wilmington, NC. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ken’s memory to the North Carolina Fallen Firefighters Foundation or the Wounded Warrior Project.