Erwin F. Bogs

Erwin F. Bogs, born January 14, 1939, joined his heavenly Father in paradise on February 19, 2026 at the age of 87. Beloved husband of Roberta K. Bogs (his “Sweetie”), whom he married May 20, 1961, loving father of Therese Bogs (Wayne Haser) and Mark Bogs, and loving grandfather of Lauren (Jesse) Newbanks, Alexis Diaz-Albertini (Christopher Blackwood), Olivia Bogs, Vanessa Bogs, and Stefanie Bogs. Born to Erwin E. and Frances Bogs, brother to Gilbert, Caroline, Robert, Marie, Coral, Fred, Rosalie, Betty, Louise, and Barbara.

Erwin grew up on the East Side of Chicago and attended Bowen High school, where he met his wife, Roberta, to whom he was happily married for 64 years. Their enduring commitment, true love, understanding, and forgiveness set the best example and foundation for their family. Erwin devoted more than forty years to management in the chemical industry, beginning his career with International Harvester and concluding it with his retirement from Henkel Corporation. He also served his country with distinction, starting in ROTC during high school and continuing with 22 years in the United States Army National Guard, retiring with the rank of Major. At the same time, Erwin dedicated more than a decade as Director of CCD at St. John's Church in Glenwood, IL where he and his wife raised their children. In 1994, they moved to Monee, IL where he remained deeply involved in both his community and his parish, St. Boniface Church. Erwin was a dedicated servant of the Lord, through eucharistic ministry, lectoring, and working in the parish office. He lived his faith through acts of generosity, kindness, and community involvement.

There are no words that encapsulate who Erwin was or what he meant to everyone he met. He left an indelible mark and his role in people’s lives is irreplaceable. Throughout his life, Erwin was always an integral part in anything he participated in. His positive energy and unwavering care for others is a shared experience by all who knew him. Erwin had a wonderful smile, laugh, enthusiasm, and a sense of humor, which he freely shared with everyone; his perfectly timed jokes were his staple. His zest for life never dulled.

He enjoyed traveling, gardening, mowing his lawn, birdwatching, crossword puzzles, baking Christmas cookies, and spending time with his family. After a full day of activities, Erwin relaxed with Roberta in their sunroom watching birds, wildlife and the sunset in his back yard while enjoying his favorite glass of Jack Daniels on the rocks.

Erwin’s life was the truest example of what it means to be a great husband, father, friend, and light for others. To know him was to love him, and to be loved by him was an immeasurable honor.

“Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends." — 1 Corinthians 13:7-8

Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 1st (2:00 PM - 7:00 PM) at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, 65 Old Frankfort Way, Frankfort, IL 60423.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, March 2nd (10:00 AM) at St. Boniface Catholic Church, 5304 W Main St, Monee, IL 60449.

Interment will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 W Hoff Road, Elwood, IL 60421.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Erwin’s memory can be made to: National Museum of the United States Army (https://www.thenmusa.org)