Eric John Bogue (1965-2022) Obituary and Memorial

Life story

Eric John Bogue, 57, passed away at home surrounded by his family on July 11, 2022. Eric, born in Windham, CT, was currently residing in Columbia, CT in a supported living arrangement with his Uncle John Berube; his housemate for over 27 years.

At two weeks old, Eric became the survivor of a traumatic brain injury. Although he had physical limitations, he had the strength and will to survive what many thought would be a short and simple life. However, his life was anything but simple, and we are blessed beyond measure to have had him with us for 57 years.

Bogie, as his dad liked to call him was a gold medal participant in many Special Olympic events. He was a great bowler, "pitch, hit and run" competitor, and lover of all sports. His love for the Boston Red Sox became his main passion and brought the family to become season ticket holders for over 40 years. When Eric wasn't watching baseball, he was singing, watching the birds outside his window, or playing with his electric trains. He also rode in the Columbia 4th of July parade every year with his friend the late State Representative Edith Prague, passing out candy and waving his American Flag.

Eric was also and Ambassador for ARC, an advocacy organization committed to protecting the rights of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and promoting opportunities for their full inclusion in their communities. In 2011, Eric and his cousin Bradley Bogue participated in the Run to Home Base at Fenway Park, an annual fundraiser raising funds for Veterans and their families.

There are many things that Eric taught us during his time here. His love for the simple pleasures in life; a Cardinal, wind chime, butterfly, or the way the American flag blows. His loyalty to those things he loved, and his pure determination simply can't be beaten. And most of all, his strength and determination to live without as much as a complaint and make everyone around him laugh. As we sit here today reminiscing of his life, the winds blow so gentle, and we know he is all amongst us.

Eric is survived by his father Robert John and his mother Gloria-Jean, of Columbia. His sister Sondra and her husband Jody of North Carolina. His niece Chiana Flynn and her husband John, and their children Jackson and Macklin of Colorado. He has numerous other family and friends of whom his life has touched.

His family will receive relatives and friends on Wednesday, July 13, 2022 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson Street, Willimantic and on Thursday, July 14, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM with his funeral service beginning at 11:00 AM at the funeral home. His burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Club Road, Windham, CT.

The family would like to stress that people do not need to attend both events, but more than welcome. Anyone that would like to attend is asked to wear something honoring Major League Baseball, especially the Red Sox (yes, even you Yankee fans). In lieu of flowers and donations, Eric asks that you pray for the Red Sox to win the World Series. For an online memorial guestbook, please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com.

There are so many people that Eric loved, but there were a few that held a special place in his heart. These special people Eric had asked to be his pall bearers.

Gary Ayotte - a shared love for the Red Sox and Carlton Fisk

Dave Estridge - a life long friend and more

Mark Bocash - a special cousin - always there with a helping hand

Bradley Bogue - a Red Sox Run to Home Base memory

Carlos Cassanova - my boss and my friend always

Ronald Bogue - my Godfather

Photos