June 19, 2024
Our one-of-a kind father passed away suddenly in his 89th year on June 19, 2024. With a little help from his son, dear friends, watchful neighbours, and his wonderful doctor, he proudly lived an independent life. As a former military fitness instructor, he was still lifting weights and doing crunches daily.
Edward had a distinguished military career. The discipline and structure of military life suited him. He signed up with the Royal Winnipeg Rifles but he later transferred to the Queen's Own Rifles. Edward also served as a peacekeeper with a Canadian army special force in Korea. Edward had always been very athletic and participated in many activities including swimming, gymnastics and hammer throw. He continued his education in the Forces and became a physical education and recreation instructor (PERI).
Ed met his wife, Brigitte, while stationed near lserlohn, Germany. Before shipping back to Canada, Dad experienced a self-proclaimed stand out day in his life. The event was getting married twice on the same day to the same woman, the love of his life. Both Canadian and German services were required.
ln 1959 they were posted home and arrived in Canada with their daughter, Susanne and infant son Edward, Jr. After several moves across Canada, MWO Bogan was posted to Chilliwack. He was put in charge of the fitness program and infrastructure for CFB Chilliwack in 1974.
After retirement Ed was proud to become a school bus driver for the Chilliwack School District. He had happy memories of his experiences. He especially enjoyed being a reading buddy to kindergarten children.
After his second retirement, Ed and Brigitte enjoyed many years of adventure traveling in Canada and the US. They also returned often to Germany to visit family and friends.
After Brigitte became ill, Ed nursed her tenderly and diligently until her passing in hospice in 2013. He was devastated and mourned her deeply.
Yet despite his sorrow, he lived with a lot of love and happiness. Ed truly enjoyed people, greeting any stranger with warmth and delight. He was grateful for his many friends and enjoyed their company enormously.
He had an amazing memory and loved to tell stories from his long and interesting life. His sense of duty and dedication to service were evident in the care he showed to his aging friends; lending a hand, bringing meals, going out for breakfast or taking them for long drives in the country to spot eagles and swans.
In his later years, he enjoyed sitting on "his" bench at the Vedder River and happily providing treats to the dogs that passed by.
Thankfully, in 2022 he was able to attend the 90th birthday celebration of his sister, Barbara, in Ontario. He was truly grateful to reunite with her, his other sister, Kitty, and all their extended families.
At times, our father could be strong-willed and single minded, but he had the sweetest mischievous smile and caring heart! He was humorous, generous and kind. He carried himself with dignity and strength Ed is survived by his son and daughter, Edward and Susanne, and his granddaughter Charlotte. We will miss him very much.
Our family would like to extend our thanks to his family doctor, the staff at Chilliwack General Hospital and Cascade Hospice for their compassionate and dedicated care. His stay at hospice was brief but his quiet, peaceful passing with us at his side was a comfort.
A celebration of Edward's life will be announced at a future date.
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