Longtime Athletic Coach Bruce Bogenrief, 78, Survived by His Wife Michelle and Family!
Bruce Bogenrief donated his brain to Boston University for research as a final act of generosity.
May 2, 2026
This article was last updated by Aditi Rai on May 2, 2026
The Watertown community mourns the loss of Bruce Gerald Bogenrief, a dedicated educator, coach, and family man, who passed away on April 24, 2026, at the age of 78. Bruce, who was released from physical pain.
Bruce Gerald is survived by his wife, Michelle, two sons, () and Michael Bogenrief (Melissa), and four grandchildren: , , Madelyn, and Teddy Bogenrief.
Meanwhile, precise details surrounding his wife and their relationship timeline remain concealed.
Likewise, he also leaves behind his sisters, Char Brady, Kay Schumacher, and Mary (Dave) Swartzer, and an extended family of Kraemer in-laws.
Watertown-Mayer High School coach Bruce Bogenrief was a graduate of St. Cloud State University (Image Source: )Whereas, Bruce Bogenrief was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Gary and Mark, as well as brothers-in-law Butch Brady and Tom Schumacher.
Born on January 22, 1947, to Gerald and Fran (Gallus) Bogenrief, Bruce grew up with a passion for sports and education.
A highly educated man, Bruce earned degrees from St. Cloud State University, the University of Minnesota, and St. Thomas University.
He was a sports fan from the time he was young. Bogenrief boxed in the Golden Gloves, played college and high school football, and was an outstanding catcher in baseball and softball.
Bogenrief’s career in education began in Catholic schools in Delano and Excelsior, where he served as both a teacher and administrator.
He later joined Watertown-Mayer High School, where he dedicated over three decades to shaping young minds and coaching athletes.
Bogenrief’s athletic spirit carried into his hobbies, which included vegetable gardening, splitting wood, bowling, and playing blackjack and Texas Hold’em.
Not to forget, Bruce Bogenrief was also a veteran of the U.S. Army Reserves from 1967 to 1973.
In a final act of generosity, Bruce donated his brain to Boston University for research on Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). Hence, due to this donation, private family services will be held.
While memorials can be sent to the family at 44 Riverside Terrace in Watertown.
During this difficult time, we offer our heartfelt condolences to Bogenrief’s wife, kids, and extended family and pray for their strength to overcome this grief.
Rest In Peace, Bruce Bogenrief!
- Check other Articles on
Aditi is an avid music lover whose interest's goes beyond the realm of music, with passion in digital marketing. A Gen Z who loves her personal space and is keen to exploring new things. An optimist who seeks silver lining in every circumstances life throws at her.
Related articles
May 13, 2026
May 12, 2026
May 12, 2026
May 8, 2026
Comments
LEAVE A REPLY
Comment: Please enter your comment! Name:* Please enter your name here Email:* You have entered an incorrect email address! Please enter your email address here
Δ
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam.
Share article
- May 13, 2026 Residents of Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, are raising serious concerns after a series of violent incidents involving a group of young boys who have been targeting...
- May 13, 2026 Andrew O' Donnell of Fairfield, Connecticut, passed away at the age of 39. He was born in Fairfield, Connecticut, and later moved to Ancramdale, New...
- May 12, 2026 Judy (Evans) Milby of Rockwall, Texas, passed away on Saturday at the age of 80. Milby was born on July 25, 1945, to her father,...
- May 12, 2026 Residents of Dromore, Co. Down, are calling for action after a deeply concerning incident at the local play park, where older children were reported...
- May 11, 2026 A video circulating on Facebook has sparked a heated debate among Bell Gardens residents after police were called on a group of kids riding...
