Ronald Forest Bogardus, 76

Ronald Forest Bogardus, 76, passed away, due to many years of diabetic complications, on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2008, in Sandpoint, Idaho.

Memorial services will be held at 3 p.m. Monday, Nov. 10, 2008, at the Lakeview Funeral Home in Sandpoint.

Ron was born Aug. 17, 1932, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Forest and Opal Bogardus. Ron had a strong work ethic. His favorite job was working for the railroad for nine years, where he shoveled coal into the furnace for one of the last steam engines. He then transferred to the U.S. Postal Service until he retired in 1972 for health reasons. He also drove truck on his days off.

Ron married Vivian Copple on Oct. 26, 1962, in Sioux City. After Ron's retirement the couple lived in Haines, Alaska, for two years before settling in Sandpoint.

Ron loved guns and shooting, especially black powder. He was a member of the Sandpoint Shooting Range. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, music and played the accordion a little. He also built three Harley motorcycles during his life.

He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Vivian Bogardus of Sandpoint; a daughter and granddaughter, Rhonda and Sarah Clancy; a sister, Jeanie Derby; nephews, Cory Derby, and James Brownlee; and niece Linda Johnson all of Sioux City.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Romand, in 1986.

The family would like to express their appreciation to Valley Vista Care Center for their compassionate care; Dr. Cope and his associates, Bonner General Hospital, Post Falls Advanced Care, Post Falls Specialty Hospital, Kootenai Medical Center, and Bonner Community Hospice.

Lakeview Funeral Home in Sandpoint is handling the arrangements. Please visit Ron's online memorial at www.lakeviewfuneral.com and sign his guest book.