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"Reflections and Stories"
The following are thoughts, memories and stories about Braden, and how he touched many lives.
Wendell, Suzanne and Keevan S.
Everyone loved Braden. He had a magnetic personality and was so very charming. He meant alot to our family, and we will always have wonderful memories of him.
I remember going to a Nebraska football game with Braden and buying tickets in the first row on the 50 yard line. We were excited to get the seats until we found out we couldn't see over the players or the sidelines. We did find out it was a great place to get autographs from the players. Keevan
We remember all the fun at the track meets with Braden and his family. Wendell and Suzanne
Josh K.
I liked the way Braden said "Buddy" whenever he saw me or anyone else he knew. That is just the way Braden was, a buddy to all of us.
One summer a bunch of us went to Niobrara, NE to go camping. It was the second and final day on the river and we were almost down the river when Braden decided he had to take a shower before returning home that day. We all said, "Braden, you don't need to shower. We aren't showering, so why should you?" As it turns out, he did get to shower before returning home. And we all still had the time of our lives.
Rachel J.
Stan, Judy and Brinne - From my point of view, you will never have to look back and wonder if you could have done something better... It's very obvious that your family knows the meaning of love. We love you and will be here. Randy, Rachel, Ben and Dan
When Bradey was working at the grocery store, I "needed" a sacker to carry my one bag out to my car. I'd seen him in the rear of the store a few minutes earlier. So I asked the checker to page "Brandon Bo-jeu" to the front for carry-out. She did. Bradey heard the page and came tearing down the aisle to give her a piece of his mind - but he saw me and started to laugh, and said "Carry your own bag, Ra-shel!"
Denise J.
I cannot begin to tell you about all the good, fun memories I have of Braden. I do know that he will always be in your hearts and mine. His love will last forever. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you all. I'll never forget his wonderful smile and great big hugs!
Jay H.
God, thank you for blessing our lives and this world with Braden's time here. If we could have kept track of the number of smiles and laughs Braden created like you surely have, we would have a better picture of how much Braden brought to the people he touched. His laugh probably caused more smiles than the typical Christmas morning.
Please help us cope with our loss and realize the joy that Braden is experiencing in Your presence. I pray that we can see this through Your eyes. I want to focus on the blessings of this tragic event and help others realize the great Love You have for all of us. Help me appreciate the gift of time and use it to bless others for eternity by sharing what Your Holy Spirit puts on my heart. Christ gave His life for all of us to experience a life of freedom from sins. Thanks for Braden's loving family. I truly feel that You have blessed my life with the opportunity to meet them through Braden. I pray that I can bless their lives as our journey continues.
Thanks for the memories: *Going to the coffee shop to study (Braden always studied, I ususally talked)* *Driving to the beach* *Playing Hacky Sack* *Watching Carrie laugh at Braden - watching Braden tickle Carrie* *Playing ping pong at the Bogue's after a long drive to Iowa* *Sitting down for dinner with all of the Bogue's (great food)*
Jessica P.
The memories that I share of Braden are the countless cross-country practices and his moments of jokes in order to help us make it through the pain and to let us know we could survive. I cherish the opportunity of sharing valedictorian of our class and of sitting next to him in physics keeping each other sane in a class of insanity. I miss him, but he has accomplished so much. His memory will live on forever.
Roger and Bev B., Al and Melanie S.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you - today and in the days to come. The Lord give you comfort and peace.
G. S.
Braden will always be remembered as a true friend. I had a daughter in his class & as parents, we are proud of both children. God be with you always. Remember when your mother handed you your H.S. Diploma! Proud moment.
Melissa K.
Wise words from Braden to me this summer on the subject of surfing: "The key to surfing is simply to stand and balance."
Deb R.
He was wonderfully unique and very much loved.
Sarah D.
Braden lived on the floor below me for 3 years. In fact, he was my "downstairs neighbor" last year. His smile hardly ever ceased. Even on his early morning desk shift at Hole's Hall. I'll remember how he liked bananas, and his rendition of "I see skies of blue, clouds of white..." will echo in my mind. He was a brilliant, caring man. He will be missed. I praise God I knew him.
Keri V.
When I think of Braden, I thank the Lord for graciously blessing me with the opportunity to get to know him. He was the very first person I met at SCSU, before school even started at Honors registration in the summer. During our sophomore year we were Homecoming candidates for Honors Club. I remember we had to get up and say something that would make people want us to represent Honors Clubat Homecoming. Braden sang "Rubber Duckey." So typical of him, always making everyone laugh. And I remember at Homecoming Corronation when he showed up wearing his choir tux.
I also remember seeing the joy in Carrie Dygert's eyes when she told me that Braden asked her to marry him. I know that Braden is looking down from Heaven smiling at all of us, wishing we were with him. His adventurous spirit will never be forgotten. I pray that each and every day the Lord will give his family, friends and loved ones comfort and peace and more as time passes. May the Lord's grace always be with you, Braden Bogue.
Michael J. S.
Braden, I can never thank you enough for being a part of my life. The short time we had together will change me forever. You lived your life with such gusto! I will never forget the great times we spent together. People like you are few and far between. You will always be in my memories, my heart and my prayers. I cannot wait until the day I see you again. We will laugh and talk and reminisce of the old times. Your smile will stay with me forever. Love, your friend.
Jenny S.
The first memory I have of Braden is from our freshman year at SCSU. My first class was Greek Philosophy with David Boyer. And Braden. It was an 8am Honors class, and I remember Braden, who was remarkably wide awake at 8am, singing "Rubber Ducky" to us all one day. It was a wonderful way to wake up.
Then of course were the millions of Scrabble games we played that year. Braden, Deb, Sarah and I. I'm sure our vocabularies grew immensely and we all know so many "Q" words. I remember the "Humpty Dance" and "Mission Impossible" and the late nights of watching movies. I also remember how he dressed up as a clown for Loren's birthday that year. I remember how we used to swap cat stories and argue about whose cat was cuter. I remember Christmas shopping with him, trips to the Q-lot to return our cars, and looking forward to his choir concerts. There are no words to describe how much he meant to me. As a saying by Flavia goes: "Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Others leave footprints on our hearts and we are never the same." That's what Braden did to me - left footprints and I will never forget him. I will miss him always.
Lochlan M.
Braden, the memory that always comes to mind when I think of you is our golfing tournament. Doug asked us to play in his tournament for work at Carter Lake. I got the biggest kick out of you that day. You always had a one-liner for something. If only you had as many golf balls in your bag. I think the 1st couple of holes you must have lost 6 balls. It wasn't long before Doug and I realized we must watch your ball. I remember you giving me that look of "Did you see where that one went?" Doug and I supplied you with some extra balls. But the very next hole you were hitting them in the water for practice. *HA* Doug and I looked at each other and laughed. You truly will be missed.
Brandi
Thank you Braden for the wackiness you brought to this world. You had such a love for life and people and I could see the Lord walk in your life. I remember the first time I met you. You were so crazy. I actually thought you were missing a few marbles, but you weren't. They were all in place! In fact, you had more than enough. I look forward to the day I get to see you in Heaven.
Denny and Roxie H.
Thank you for all that you added to our family. Golfing was great and you are a great son!
Ray
Thank you Braden for being you. Every time I saw you I would always smile.
Sara S.
The one thing I will always remember about Braden is that he always had a smile to share. You'll be missed.
Kristi
Among the many things Braden taught me. I'll always remember him for the correct way to peel a banana.
Seth
Braden, one with a smile, one with a heart, a truly great freind I will never forget.
Matt L.
Braden. Extra bounce he took with every step. Touched everyone he ever met. He will always be remembered for his smile and true freindship. His memory will never die.
Jeff T.
Braden and I had many great memories together. He touched many people's lives, and will always be remembered for his caring ways! He will be greatly missed!
Dawn M.
Whenever I picture Braden I see a four-year-old in a cowboy outfit, as soon as it went on the attitude came out. Even with attitude as cute as can be. The older he became the stronger his hugs were. He could squeeze me until I couldn't breathe. As soon as I would see him I would run but he could always catch me. I'd give anything for a hug now, I wouldn't run. I'll miss you and love you, say "hi" to the angels.
Kevin H.
Braden is not gone as he will be with us always.
Joe J.
I remember how excited Braden was about going to Boy's State.
Jim S.
Braden always brightened my days working with him. I'll always remember his smile.
Sunny Jo
Things I remember most of my cousin Braden. I remember when Braden would jump on my bed early in the morning to wake me up. He would hug me so hard sometimes I thought I would lose my breath. I remember when I visited for a week and Braden, Brinne and I would stay in the tree house behind their house. I remember how Braden took me to the driving range and helped me to hit the golf balls, since I was having such a hard time. And all the games we used to play, he was a master at everything. Once Braden, Brinne, their freind and I were up for hours playing Dominos at Hardee's and he won most times. Most of all I remember how he would light up a room when he came in. I love you and miss you you, Braden.
Uncle Doug
You will always be a great nephew. One of the fullest people I have ever known. You lead a full life even though it lasted only 22 years. I'll never forget your reaction when I got my hole in one.
Minda and Merlin T.
Braden was one of my favorite students. He would always run up and give me a hug, even after he graduated.
Doug and Jackie S.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Chuck M., Campus Crusade for Christ, Campus Director
I met Braden as a freshman at St. Cloud State. He never knew a stranger and was well liked and respected all over campus. Just Thursday, Dec. 16, I was meeting with seven students who knew him and four of them said Braden was the very first person they had met coming to SCSU. He's influenced many lives by his positive attitude and commitment to Jesus Christ - by his consistent witness and life of integrity.
Susanna R.
I don't have a skill with words like Braden did, but here goes: I got to know Braden - part of the 'real' Braden - through voice lessons. He started in September of '95 - his senior year. He wanted help with "Godspell" music (Hinton's musical that fall).... I wasn't sure we'd ever get that duet section!! He was determined, however, and accomplished the task.
Then we went on to do art songs ("L'Sciate mi moure", Come Again", etc.) - but we always did fun songs chosen by him, too. That was where I started to see the 'romantic' in him. He chose songs like "How To Handle A Woman" (Camelot) "If Ever I Would Leave You" (Camelot) with the intro in French, of course, and finally toward the end of the year as his voice developed, the low, full song "Ole Man River" (Showboat). Golf season came and the busyness of senior spring - voice lessons ended!
The best part, however, was at the end of lessons how he'd read his poetry or we'd debate "voices"... The trust level hadn't built until around December. He shared how special his Grandpa was - how they'd wrote back and forth, always. I started to realize how tender, intelligent and special this young man was - what a treat to get to know part of his heart.
He also loved sharing about his deep love for his family. All of the special times they 'made happen'. I heard about aunts, Colorado cousins, etc. This was all the fabric of what was important to Braden.
And, of course, the senior year college choosing saga as well as "Roots and Wings" at Central. He was beginning to 'come into his own' - Braden was a terrific narrator - reading scripture with resonance and poise (not to mention handsome)! He worked detail after detail for the drama sketch (Heaven is Counting On You) and singing the accompanying song. All done with a sense of responsibility and dedication.
Now, I know he had his impish side, too! I was on the end of that a few times! But, by this time Braden had entered my small galley of really special kids, prayed for and cared about.
What a deep and treasured gift it has been to know more than the 'surface' Braden - to see part of the 'real' heart. He's soaring! You're soaring! Braden - well done. You've got to Heaven ahead of us!!
..."Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31)
Carrie R.
Now and forever, when I think of Braden, I'll see him standing with Brinne amongst a flock of Venetian pigeons, smiling, and as surprised as myself to see each other in St. Mark's Square, of all places. I knew Braden in that unique way that a younger child admiringly watches aan older child, from a distance yet with a sense of familiarcy. Primarily through "Roots and Wings" and voice recitals. I remember my mother being so delighted in his growth both spiritually and vocally.
That summer evening when we met in Venice, thoughts of the past didn't pass through my head as much as did a simple impression. An impression of a person, young like me, but on the older edge of that youth. A sense of completion, that here was success: allowing God to shape us into the people we become each day. And Braden did that. I left Brinne and he, and the last time I saw him, they were sitting on the steps by the lion's head, talking. I smiled to myself, because there was one who had "made it" through the years 'til now. A special one. And that is how I'll always think of him.
Kim B.
I went to school at SCSU with Braden and he was the most genuine, happy, sincere person that I had ever met. We had many classes together, but I remember one English class in particular. Once a week he would go to the campus bakery and buy donuts, rolls and muffins and distribute them to everyone in class. That's just the way he was, so generous and always thinking of everyone else first. He was a wonderful person that his family should be extremely proud of. His laughter will be greatly missed.
Monica W.
I knew Braden from the Honors program at SCSU. We had Children's Issues together. I remember how full of life Braden always was. He always had a smile on his face. He brought a smile and joy to everyone he came into contact with and was always joking. He cared very deeply about everyone around him. I remember how vocal he was about children's rights and when he spoke, people listened. He was a true leader in every sense of the word.
Michael S.
Dear Braden, I guess this is my chance to talk about my thoughts. Well, you were a great man, somebody I very much respect and admire. You always knew how to love life and make people smile. But you were more than that; you were a great friend. I am reminded of that saying, "It's not how you die that matters, it's how you live." You lived a short life, but it was an exceptional one. I will always be grateful for the time we had together.
Grace H.
Braden, I will miss you. Love.
Hillary Jean H.
Braden we'll miss you. I'm keeping you in my hearts and my prayers.
Madeline
I love you. You were always nice to me even when I was shy to you. What I liked most about you is that you were funny and I laughed.
Peggy R.
Braden, Brinne and I were baptized on the same evening. I remember their sweet, young faces and was thankful they were making their profession of Christ and commitment on the same evening and at such a young age. May our loving, compassionate Father comfort and strengthen you all now and in the days and weeks to come. How wonderful that all your memories of Braden are of the joy and love he brought to you and all whose lives he touched!
Dan Holder
I never got to see Braden as much lately as I had when he was growing up. He is like a little brother to me. I will miss him always.
Designing this web site was a very emotionally draining experience. But I don't regret the time I've spent putting it together. Reading the stories about Braden, some made me laugh, some made me cry. I feel I that got to know him alot better from reading the stories and looking at the pictures. He accomplished more in 22 years than most people accomplish in a lifetime. God only knows what he could have accomplished in the next 22 years. His light will always shine.