Obituary of Ronald James Hogden

On Monday June 25, 2018 Heaven welcomed a new Angel, our beloved red-headed, generous, life-loving, Ronald J. Hogden. Ron (Red, Red Ronnie) loved his God, his family, sports and McDonald's cheeseburgers. Born in LaCrosse, Wis to Arthur & Phyllis Hogden, Ron had a happy, busy childhood while attending St. James School and Aquinas High School. He continued to support Aquinas all his life and attended his 50th Class Reunion in 2012, renewing many old friendships. He began working at Sandy's Hamburger Stand while attending UW-LaCrosse full time. During this time he met Linda Lee (at her sister's house, no less!) They began dating and were married in 1966, after which they moved to Dubuque, Iowa when Ron was promoted to manage a new Sandy's restaurant there. They welcomed two daughters - Michele & Lynne - during these years. Then, in 1971, the Hogden family moved to Cincinnati. Ron joined his brother-in-law, Bill Galster, in the heavy equipment business, representing such companies as Shepard Niles, Orley Meyer, Coffing and P&H to name just a few. Ron & Bill built a very successful company there. Ron began coaching at this time - starting with his nieces playing softball. He was a member of the original Springdale Sports Council, which was instrumental in building one of the best recreation centers in the suburban area. Ron also coached Boys Basketball, over 30 and then over 40 Men's League (he was player-coach). He donated many hours of his time and loved every minute of it. Son Andrew was born in 1974, making the Hogden family complete. He grew up enjoying many countless hours of fun at Springdale Recreation Center with his many friends. After 21 years in the Cincinnati area, Ron & Linda moved to Las Vegas to live in what was their vacation home. Since Ron never knew a stranger, he made many new friends. Visitors to town knew they could pretty much find him at the Barbary Coast in the early years, and Boulder Station in the later years. After a bout with shingles caused him to need a corneal transplant, Ron was no longer able to sit with his buddies in the smoky casino to watch horse races or sports. He became a homebody and was extremely involved in news and politics. Ron's family was of ultimate importance. He remained close to his siblings, especially Larry (they never went a day without at least one telephone call) and his sisters all of his life. Fortunately, or in accordance with God's Plan, they all came to visit him during the last week of his life. His sisters took such good care of him, which he adored. Everyone got to say goodbye in person to their brother. Ron faced his many health problems with bravery and great courage. He fought ferociously for his life, but recognized without fear, that Jesus would be tapping him on the shoulder soon. We were so blessed to have him at home in his own bedroom when the "call" came. Ron is survived by his loving family: his wife of 52` years, Linda; daughter Micki (Willie) Torres, Kayla & Kelsie; daughter Lynne Burns, Addison & Austin; son Andrew; sister Sally (Bill) Galster; brother Larry (Kathy) Hogden; sister Judy (John) Prowant; sister Mary Hogden Thompson; sister-in-law Sandra (Larry) Anderson; brother-in-law Chris (Susan) Lee and many nieces, nephews and friends who were cherished by Ron. No services were held, per Ron's wishes.