Fisher Bogard, a member of the Elk Rapids varsity soccer team, tragically passed away on May 14.
He was nearly home when his vehicle struck a deer and hit a tree. Sadly, he did not survive the accident.
Fisher, 20, was known in his community for his athletic talent on the soccer field, kind heart, and bright spirit.
Family And Friends Mourn The Loss Of Fisher Bogard
Andy Bogard shared a heartbreaking message, tagging his wife, Sara Brown Bogard, to express the deep sorrow their family is experiencing.
He wrote that they are overwhelmed with grief after the loss of their son, Fisher, who was almost home when he struck a deer and then a tree, tragically losing his life.
We are crushed by grief. Fisher was almost home last night and hit a deer, then a tree and did not survive. He will always be remembered by his big heart for his friends, family and pets. He was genuine, easy going, helpful, thoughtful, reserved and adventurous. He was set to embark on his summer aboard a commercial freighter on Sunday. We cannot comprehend this life without him. We thank you for the outpouring of support to help us through our most difficult time.
Andy Bogard
Similarly, a teacher, Monica Griffore Malbouef, shared a heartfelt memory of Fisher Bogard, reflecting on her time teaching him during her first year at Elk Rapids.
She described him as a true joy in class, always kind, full of creative ideas, and occasionally trying to find clever ways around assignments with a playful spirit.
She remembered Fisher as calm and unique, someone who lived life meaningfully, marching to the beat of his own drum.
Monica expressed how thankful she was to have had the chance to know him before graduation and spoke lovingly of all three Bogard children, who are deeply in her thoughts during this time of sorrow.
She sent her love and support to the family as they honor Fisher’s life, which was lived fully and with heart.
He was a true joy for me to teach in my transition year to ER. He was always so kind to me and always testing me with creative ideas – or creative ways to get out of the assignment 😉 I always found him to be such a calm, unique soul and like he beat to his own perfect drum. I was so thankful to have had that time to get to know him before graduation, and have treasured my time with all 3 bogies who are heavy on my heart today – and will be in the days of healing to come. Love to all as you celebrate a life well lived to the fullest.
Monica Griffore Malbouef
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and everyone who knew and loved him during this tough time.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Fisher Bogard was a Great Lakes Maritime Academy student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Maritime Studies.
- In August 2024, Fisher Bogard spent a memorable weekend camping and paddling along the shores of Lake Superior.
- In May 2024, Fisher Bogard began an exciting chapter in his maritime journey, a six-week summer training project aboard a 224-foot training ship.
