William Shields “Bill” Bogue, 86, beloved husband to Martha and retired St. Louis City firefighter, responded to his last call on October 1, 2025.
Bill was born December 15, 1938, in St. Louis, the only child of William S. Bogue, Sr., and Marie Bogue. He married Martha Moore and together they raised two children, Diana and Gregory, in South City. Bill took seriously his role as a husband and father, and during his long and happy marriage to Martha, they welcomed seven amazing grandchildren and thirteen adorable great-grandchildren into their loving family.
Bill joined the St. Louis City Fire Department in 1960. He served with distinction, earning a reputation as a life saver unafraid to risk himself to rescue those in danger. Later in his career, he taught at the St. Louis Fire Academy before retiring from the Department in 1989 with the rank of Captain.
Although Bill’s professional life often dealt with burning and destroyed buildings, his skill as a carpenter meant he also built many new ones. He loved working with his hands, and homes throughout South City bear evidence of his craftsmanship in the form of structural improvements, screened-in porches, and second-floor dormers.
In addition to family, firefighting, and carpentry, Bill dedicated much of his time from the 1980s onward to missionary work. He built churches and orphanages in Mexico and Romania, extending his commitment to faith and service far beyond his hometown, while still making time to meet his group of lifelong friends for coffee on Thursdays.
Bill is survived by Martha, his wife of 69 years, daughter Diana (Martin) Pranger, son Gregory (Stephanie) Bogue, seven grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation is Sunday, October 12, 4-8 p.m., at Kutis Affton Chapel, 10151 Gravois 63123. Funeral service is Monday, October 13, 11 a.m., also at Kutis Affton Chapel, with burial at Resurrection Cemetery in Affton immediately following the funeral. Memorials in Bill’s honor can be made to The BackStoppers, Inc.
Martha, Diana, and Greg. Sue and I are deeply sorry for your loss. Bill was and will continue to be deeply honored and respected by all who knew him. If we were to describe Bill in one word, that word would be “honorable.” He truly lived out what a life of commitment, follow-through, and integrity looked like.
May the God of all comfort comfort you in this hour.
Martha, as friend of Bill since 1951, it is very hard for me to realize that the next time I visit the St Louis it will not be the same. You and Bill were a great couple and did great charitable all central and South America. I wish you and your family the very best wishes.
Les and I have so many memories of Bill that I would not have room to write them all down. We had many good times together helping each other with our houses and the many years we were on mission trips together. We had a lot of laughs and I enjoyed keeping my eyes on Bill and Jim Kopsas because they were very mischievous, but in a good way. Bill was a hard worker and did everything to the glory of God. Although he’s not with us any longer, we still have the wonderful memories.
Our sincere condolences to Martha and their family.
Les and Jan stuckmeyer
Martha, I am so very sorry to hear of Bill passing. I am so thankful for learning about the Panera Coffee meetings. When I would come to St.Louis for a visit I would make sure to go by and see him, Bob and Harley.. I will treasure the memories of our childhood growing up together… I’m also glad I got to see him this last visit… Fly High with your new Angel Wings My Friend..
Bill was such a dear long-time friend to my parents (Frank & Barb Schembre), and by extension to our entire family. I will cherish the memories of Bill and my dad working on and driving to Thursday coffee in his Model A Ford. Our thoughts and prayers for Martha who is holds such a special place in our hearts.
Martha, we are so sorry for your loss. Bill was a great neighbor and friend, not just to us but to everyone he met. He was always there for anyone who needed help, and his intelligence and sharp sense of humor made him a pleasure to know. The two of you have been essential to keeping our neighborhood attractive, welcoming and safe. We will miss him terribly.