Charles Eugene Bogan, 90, of Olathe, Kansas, will be remembered for the friendships he cherished and the family he loved deeply. He died peacefully on August 17, 2026.
Born January 16, 1936, in Clay Center, Kansas, Charlie grew up surrounded by the love of his mother, Josephine Louise Montell, and his grandmother. A proud Tiger, he graduated from Clay Center Community High School in 1953. He went to the University of Kansas, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in 1957 living in Battenfeld Scholarship Hall and working at The Hawk. His education journey continued with law school at Washburn University, earning his JD in 1961.
In 1962, Charlie married his beloved Earline Faye Reay and moved to Abilene, Kansas. Faye was, in Charlie’s words, “far better than I deserved.” Their 56-year marriage was filled with family, friends, and multiple trips to Lawrence to support their Jayhawks. After her death in 2018, the love they shared remained an important part of his life.
Charlie especially cherished the friendships that made life in Abilene so special. Whether gathered for a Friday night “Nip and Nibble,” or spending time with his golfing buddies, his friends were an important part of his life. In addition to their many friends Charlie and Faye loved watching their children build friendships of their own. Their home was often the place where the kids and their friends gathered, and they enjoyed being the house where everyone could come, hang out, and feel at home.
Known affectionately as “Woo Woo” to his grandchildren and family, Charlie treasured time with them, especially family trips to Colorado when the kids were young and July 4th traditions with the grandkids. He loved his dogs, particularly Blaze, his “Queen of Dogs.”
Charlie built a long and respected career in law and business. He practiced general law in Abilene for 25 years before a 25-year career with Duckwall Alco, where he served as Vice President, Secretary, and General Counsel. He retired in 2011.
In 2012, Charlie and Faye moved to Olathe, Kansas, and made their home at Santa Marta. They were fortunate to find another wonderful community of friends. These friendships became a meaningful part of Charlie’s later years, bringing companionship, laughter, and encouragement. He often spoke with genuine gratitude about the people he met at Santa Marta and how their friendship and support meant to him.
Charlie was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Abilene for 50 years, serving as an Elder and trustee. When he and Faye moved to Santa Marta in 2012, he transferred his membership to Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church in Overland Park.
Charles is survived by his daughter, Julie Webb, and her children, Brock and Jolee; his son, Brett Bogan, his wife, Susan, and their son, Charlie Bogan; and his daughter, Brooke Adkins, her husband, Bill, and their son, Luke Thorstenberg.
Charlie requested a small celebration of life at Santa Marta which will be held at a future date. His family will remember him with gratitude, laughter, and love.