James Bogner Obituary
James graduated from Paradise Valley High School in 2006, where he was Student Body President, and a state champion in cross country and track during his senior year.
James graduated from Columbia University in 2010 with a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science. He was named Second Team All-Ivy League for cross country and was on the Student Council Elections Board.
James graduated with a Master's Degree in Higher Education Administration from Arizona State University in 2018 and was working on a doctoral degree at the time of his passing.
James was employed in Financial Aid at Columbia University, Arizona State University, and most recently at Phoenix College.
James had an endless desire to learn, turning even the smallest conversation into something more. A once small interest in Birds turned into a passion he carried throughout his life. James had a mischievous nature, and could always make his friends and family laugh, but he never failed to show his deep love and care for those same friends and family.
James was preceded in death by his grandparents, James and Hollan Bogner, Sr. and Henry and Theresa Lewandowski.
James is survived by his parents James and JoAnn Bogner, Jr., his brother Jonathan (Jillian) Bogner and niece Elsie, dog-nephew Howie, Godfather Uncle Scott (Carol) Bogner, Godmother Aunt Carol Lewandowski, Counselor/Uncle Fr. Ray Lewandowski, Aunts Susan (Al) Brumer, Cathy (Paul) Jakubiak, Jeannie Sam, Mary (Bobby) Steinc, numerous cousins, and Friends who became Family.
Celebration of Life, November 16, 2025, 11 am Hansen Mortuary (Desert Hills).
Live Stream Link: https://vimeo.com/event/5451412
Recorded Video Link: https://vimeo.com/1127320769
To send flowers to the family of James, please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Joni Martinez
November 17, 2025
James, what can I say, you were a marvel, you lite up any room you entered and you were an impact to everyone around you, you inspired me to be more and to do more, I am eternally grateful to have worked with you and to know you, your absence will be tremendous to the Financial aid community and to our world. I will forever remember you and your amazing bow ties, You will be missed. May you rest in power, and your memory live forever.
Jennie Blair
November 17, 2025
James was luminous - brilliant, curious, endlessly creative. Our paths crossed in ways that felt written in the stars, a few brief years of cosmic alchemy that changed me forever. Our ASU picnics are some of my most cherished memories. His work mattered. His life mattered. He mattered.
I promise, my friend - the work lives on. Your light continues through every person you inspired, every story you helped shape, and every space made more human by your presence. JB Squared.
Mindy Nolls
November 17, 2025
I am deeply saddened at the loss of James. I met him when we worked at Arizona State University. He was so funny, and so committed to helping students. He will be sorely missed.
-Mindy Nolls
Justin Holmes
November 16, 2025
James was a very important person in my life. We first met when I was working in the undergraduate admissions office at Columbia University and he was in the financial aid office. We quickly became friends. During my time at Columbia, I frequently would receive a text from James, saying something like, "I have 5 minutes between meetings, let's get coffee!" He always looked out for me. The very first text I ever received from him was asking if I was doing ok during Hurricane Sandy.
James was one of the most dedicated professionals I ever knew but also one of the best human beings. He cared deeply about students. So many of them would ask to talk to him specifically when they came to the financial aid office because he was known to be such a caring and dedicated administrator. James would keep up with many students beyond their financial aid questions, including visiting them in the hospital when they were sick. When I left Columbia, James kept up with me. When he left NYC to move back to Arizona, it was the same. In the summer of 2016, James invited me to visit him in Arizona. I stayed with him and his family and he took me all over the area.
Over the years, James never wavered in his friendship. He would reach out to ask how I was or my opinion on something, and send me pictures of what he was doing at that moment. Those photos could be anything from him walking to his car after work to hiking with friends to sporting a new bowtie to spending time with his family. We shared a love of museums and he would ask me to send him pictures of Monet's Water Lilies from the Met.
The world is definitely a lot grayer without James in it. He was one of the smartest and kindest people I have ever known. Stealing his own words from a text he once sent me, "Can't wait to see you again friend. It already feels like it's been forever."
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Justin Holmes
November 16, 2025
James was a very important person in my life. We first met when I was working in the undergraduate admissions office at Columbia University and he was in the financial aid office. We quickly became friends. During my time at Columbia, I frequently would receive a text from James, saying something like, "I have 5 minutes between meetings, let's get coffee!" He always looked out for me. The very first text I ever received from him was asking if I was doing ok during Hurricane Sandy. James was one of the most dedicated professionals I ever knew but also one of the best human beings. He cared deeply about students. So many of them would ask to talk to him specifically when they came to the financial aid office because he was known to be such a caring and dedicated administrator. James would keep up with many students beyond their financial aid questions, including visiting them in the hospital when they were sick. When I left Columbia, James kept up with me. When he left NYC to move back to Arizona, it was the same. In the summer of 2016, James invited me to visit him in Arizona. I stayed with him and his family and he took me all over the area. Over the years, James never wavered in his friendship. He would reach out to ask how I was or my opinion on something, and send me pictures of what he was doing at that moment. Those photos could be anything from him walking to his car after work to hiking with friends to sporting a new bowtie to spending time with his family. We shared a love of museums and he would ask me to send him pictures of Monet's Water Lilies from the Met. The world is definitely a lot grayer without James in it. He was one of the smartest and kindest people I have ever known. Stealing his own words from a text he once sent me, "Can't wait to see you again friend. It already feels like it's been forever."
Judy Dolinich
November 16, 2025
James left a lasting impression on my grand daughter Megan in the short time they worked together at Phoenix College. Megan made a friend in James and his humor she will live every day in the office momento they shared in laughter. Know that your sons memory of giving joy will live on in Megan and James´s co workers.
William Love
November 14, 2025
I first met James over smiles amidst some personal issues we were simultaneously addressing.
We both smile a lot and connected immediately. We always admired each other´s colorful, eclectic attire. Those brilliant bow ties! He dressed really well and he thought I did too. I sent him the Billy Joel song, " James" and he really liked it. I will miss him forever.
My deepest condolences to the family and those who knew him longer and deeper than I, because the little amount I got of James was so much so I imagine your loss must be so deep.
I hope your fond memories can bring you light through the dark times.
Most Respectfully, William Love
Emily Gonzales
October 17, 2025
I am so sad for this loss. James was new in my life but made such a big impact. We sat next to each and would stand up daily to talk over our cabinets. We would go to the cafeteria and talk about our love for coffee. I wasn't sure what to expect when I was told I was getting a neighbor but I am so happy it was him for the short time he was with us at PC. James if you can somehow see this I am going to miss your snort, your bird tales, our coffee chats and all the other random chats but most of all our daily Issac ~the plant~ morning praise routine! (and just so you know I am taking care of him)
Jacqueline Esmeijer
October 15, 2025
I am truly at a loss for words. James was such a bright light. I feel so fortunate to have worked with James and to have known him. My thoughts are with his family and friends during this time - no words do this justice, but, may you all find solace in each other. A bright light dimmed much too soon.
Amber Mesko
October 15, 2025
James was one of the most genuine and kindest souls I´ve ever had the privilege of meeting. While our paths only crossed for a short time, I will cherish those memories of him and pray he is at peace. You will be greatly missed, James.
Anna Oyerbides
October 15, 2025
I was incredibly upset and saddened to learn of James' passing. Working with James always made it pleasant to come to work even on days it was tough. Even after he left my department and no longer worked at the same campus as me at ASU, he always made a point to stop and see me if he was at my campus. James you will be missed and my condolences go out to his family.
Sean Storrs
October 15, 2025
James was dedicated, helpful and kind. We worked on the same floor for a number of months and it was always great to see him and share in his positive outlook and sense of humor.
Renee Ronika Bhatti-Klug
October 15, 2025
My friend, James. You were intentional and wise, inviting and nurturing. A supportive champion, a friend during lonely workdays. Also: hilarious and so humble even amidst shenanigans (recall the month of cockroaches! everywhere! So many we couldn´t believe it.).
Thank you for being you. I´ll miss you-who you were and could have been.
Last April 4, the final time I saw you, hugged you, you shared some of your health updates and you seemed optimistic, even in the midst of struggle. We were so in the moment we forgot to take a photo. In retrospect, this was our worst good habit.
The Sunday night before you left us, I walked by our favorite go-to on Mill. It had changed, and its eerie shadow felt like a death. I believe it was my opportunity to say goodbye to you.
I´m so sorry, friend. I loved every minute with you.
May your family know how deeply impactful your life and work have been. You were an exceptional colleague and a loving friend. The world will not be the same without you.
To James´ parents, brother, and family, especially his niece: he loved you so much and spoke well and often of you. He cherished the support you provided him.
In deep sorrow and grateful friendship,
Renee
Patty Carrillo-Martinez
October 15, 2025
James joined Phoenix College on August 18, 2025, and from the very beginning, his excitement to return to the world of Financial Aid was contagious. He truly had a heart for helping students navigate the FAFSA process and was a passionate advocate for those he served. In the short time I had the privilege of working alongside him, James made a lasting impression; not just because of his knowledge and dedication, but because of his incredible sense of humor and kind spirit.
He brought so much laughter into our days. One of his favorite things was trying to scare me; it became an ongoing joke between us. He always had a clever or playful remark ready, and his energy made our meetings something I looked forward to. We would often meet to go over his training and projects, and our conversations were always full of both learning and laughter.
In my office, there´s a big window and a tree right outside. James would often look out and ask if I saw the birds perched there. I´d usually say, "James, I can´t see that far!" But he´d insist I take a closer look, pointing out a particularly cute bird with a blue tummy. I never understood how he could spot something so small, but he had such a joy for nature, especially birds, and he loved sharing that with me.
He also spoke often about his family, especially his niece. You could tell how much he loved them from the stories he shared.
One of my favorite memories is from just a few weeks ago, he gave a Financial Aid presentation. He shared that he was in his element, smiling and engaging with students, confidently telling them he knew all the Financial Aid secrets. He had a way of making the complex seem simple; and even fun.
James may have only been with us a short time, but his impact was deep. He brought joy, laughter, and genuine care to everything he did. We miss him dearly, but we´ll always remember his kindness, humor, and the way he saw beauty; both in people and in tiny blue birds in the trees.
Your Boss (as you would call me)-Patty Carrillo-Martinez
Katelyn Armbruster
October 14, 2025
James was a gentle spirit with a bright soul. He cared deeply about his work and research, and brought a constant stream of intellect and inspiration to our doctoral cohort. We loved him for his quick wit and warmhearted nature. He will be so missed.
Shawn Banzhaf
October 14, 2025
James was a such a good friend to me. I would call him a brother for good reason. There aren't too many people outside of my veteran family that I could say that about but he stood in that space for me. Thank you James for the memories and for your friendship and constant and impeccable professionalism. You, my friend, touched lives with your heart. To James's family, peace and comfort for you in this your greatest hour of sorrow.
Showing 1 - 17 of 17 results
6500 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Make a Donation
in James Bogner's name
People and places connected with James
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support James's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor James Bogner's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
