Eugene A. Bogatko

Eugene "Gene" Bogatko, 100, passed away peacefully after a long and remarkable life defined by service, family, and community. Born July 19, 1925, in Newark, New Jersey, Gene's century of life reflected dedication, resilience, and a spirit of leadership.

In 1943, Gene enlisted in the Army Air Corps, training as a pilot and navigator. While awaiting further training, he was assigned to Special Services, where he helped produce soldier shows that lifted morale during wartime. His early service set the tone for a lifetime of commitment to others.

After the war, Gene pursued higher education, graduation in 1951 from Mount St. Mary's University in Emmitsburg, Maryland. He began his career as a teacher of history and general science, later serving as a guidance counselor in Union Bridge, Maryland. In 1953, he returned to Nutley, New Jersey, to manage his father's business during illness.

In 1955, Gene married Eleanor Lorczak, and together they ran Lorczak's Department Store, becoming a cornerstone of their community. Gene was deeply involved in civic life, serving with the Boy Scout Council, Nutley Volunteer Fire Department, the Polish University Club, the Ironbound Manufacturer's Association, and the Elks Club.

In 1962, Gene expanded his horizons by establishing an import-export business in Madrid, Spain. After years of hard work, he and Eleanor retired in 1976 to Palm Springs, California, where he continued his devotion to veterans as Commander of American Legion Post 301 in Rancho Mirage.

In 1990, Gene and Eleanor moved to Sun City West, Arizona. There, he transferred to American Legion Post 94, where he served as Commander of the Honor Guard and Color Guard for 16 years, proudly honoring fellow veterans with dignity and respect.

Gene's life was a testament to service- whether the classroom, the community, or among his fellow veterans. He will be remembered for his leadership, his devotion to family, and his unwavering commitment to community and country.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to SunCrest Hospice and Love and Care Assisted Living for their love, kindness, and care. A special thank you is offered to Gary and Marsha Krahn, Mike and Nancy Thompson, Ken Jensen, and Aloise Wrobel for their support and friendship.

A Funeral Mass will be held in Gene's memory on Thursday, December 18, at 10:00am. Located at Prince of Peace Catholic Parish, 14818 W Deer Valley Drive, Sun City West, AZ 85375.

A Private Committal Service will be held at the National Cemetery of Arizona, where he will join his beloved wife, Eleanor.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Mary Ellen Piotrowski American Legion Post 94, Sun City West, Arizona, in Gene's honor.