Encircled by his precious family Ken Boegeman (Kenneth James) departed on his last big adventure after 11 months of dealing with cancer on Wednesday, 11/27/24 at 5:35 PM.
Ken was the devoted husband (49 ½ years) of Julie (Gilbreath). He was the father of Ken Jr. (Nicole Winters), Katie (J.R. Clark) and Tim (Abby Hayes) and grandfather to Kira (20), Fin (16), Baxter (16), Ada (13), Teddy (7), Will (5) and Benny (2). Ken was the son of late Harry M. and Alice Boegeman. Ken was a friend and brother to Harry Boegeman (Terry) and Jan Cotton (Jerry). Ken was a fun brother-in-law and will be fondly remembered by nieces & nephews. Ken also had a special gift of relating to his kids’ friends and will be missed by many.
Ken attended Lindbergh High School and Mizzou where he really enjoyed his friendships, especially with his Pike bothers.
Ken’s initial business endeavor was in home repair; his first job was building a platform for a washer and, over time, he grew his knowledge and ability until he was building homes and doing major home remodels. His construction business expanded until he found himself in the building supply business. Several years later, he joined his brother and dad in the commercial property business. Eventually, he was fortunate to be joined by his son, Tim, in the family business.
Ken never knew a stranger. He loved meeting and talking with anyone and always could find the good in people. The word “avid” means “having or showing a keen interest in or enthusiasm for something.” Ken embodied that word. He was avid about whatever he put his unique mind to. He fully believed that life is an adventure to be shared with family and friends.
Along with his fun-loving spirit and keen sense of humor, Ken was known for his roles as a salesman, remodeler, repairman, craftsman and mechanic. He loved meeting interesting people, seeing unique items and observing exceptional talents. He was a collector of many antique items such as radios and cameras and was always in search of a good deal. He loved boating, fishing, playing and appreciating music, but he especially savored his time playing the game Sequence with his wife, Julie. Actually, he loved doing anything with Julie.
His children were his pride and joy.
For Ken, nothing was too hard or too much trouble. “Nothing to it but to do it!”
SERVICES: Visitation at KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL (10151 Gravois Rd., 63123) on Friday, December 6th, from 5:00 – 8:00 PM. Funeral at Kutis Affton Saturday at 1:00 PM.
While a few flowers are appreciated & lovely, if you wish, you may consider a donation to the wonderful organization: Friends of Kids with Cancer | Helping Kids with Cancer Be Kids (16 Sunnen Drive, Suite 161, Saint Louis, Missouri 63143 (314) 275-7440 | (314) 275-7446) or the charity of your choice.
Mike and I will be happy to send a donation.
An amazing tribute to an amazing man. My love and prayers for peace and healing to all Boegemans. I love you all.
Ken, you’ll be sorely missed on this side, but I’ll bet there’s a party where you are. Until we meet again dear friend. Xoxo
I send my deepest sympathy,and prayers to all. I will remember Ken with great fondness.
I was just thinking of calling both Ken & Julie and came across Ken’s Obit! I was shocked and saddened! Ken was such a dear man, who loved his wife, like no man I ever met. Julie, my heart goes out to you and your family! Ken loss is immense to all that knew him!
It great seeing Ken and Julie at a PIKE get together in early August.
I hadn’t seen him for quite some time and it brought back some fun memories.
He, Julie, and their family will be in my thoughts and prayers for quite a while.
Jim Madden PKA
What a fitting and beautiful tribute to Ken – we enjoyed reading every word. Jim and I have fun memories from many years ago. Our sincerest condolences to the entire family. May the Lord bless you and keep you and comfort you in your time of loss.
This is such a terrible loss. Ken was one of my absolute favorite people to see. He always had a smile and something cheerful to say. His positive upbeat spirit lit up a room! He and Julie have a marriage I always admired. He was so sweet and attentive to her. I will truly miss seeing and talking to him. Julie is in my heart today and always.
All my love,
Janah Minks Imboden (and Dr I)
Ken’s obituary is beautifully written. Ken was a great guy and a great friend. Ken was an avid gardener as is Julie. I always enjoyed talking with him about how the garden was, seeing his pictures, getting new ideas. It was a good and productive hobby for both of us. Nancy and I will miss him dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with Julie and the family. May all the wonderful memories of Ken bring comfort and peace.
Love
Larry and I are so saddened at the loss of Ken. But, we will always feel his presence. He was always so eager to listen, laugh, and share his great love of life. And, he had such a love of life . He not only had amazingly diverse interests, but he pursued them with a zeal and a passion that were beyond amazing. His love for Julie and his family was always at the forefront. What a gift we had in getting to be his friend.
I share all the sentiments expressed here, but also wanted to add that Ken had a kind and gentle soul, which along with a very generous heart made him accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs. Marlene and I were late comers to Ken and Julie’s circle of friends, but we consider ourselves so lucky to have been included. Our lives have been forever enriched. Our love and sympathy go out to the entire family. May the many wonderful memories of Ken be a blessing in this time.