Bob James Hogan

Bob James Hogan, a devoted husband and family man, skilled craftsman, and honored veteran, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2026, in O'Fallon, Missouri, surrounded by his loved ones at his daughter Stacy and husband Pat’s residence. Born on December 3, 1932, in Beulah, Missouri, Bob led a life marked by industriousness, dedication, and an enduring commitment to those he cherished most.

From an early age, Bob demonstrated a remarkable intellect and an insatiable thirst for knowledge. After completing high school, he continuously sought opportunities to expand his understanding, embodying a lifelong learner’s spirit. At eighteen, he answered his country’s call to service by joining the United States Air Force, serving as an airplane mechanic during the Korean War. Rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant, Bob’s steadfast work ethic and technical expertise greatly contributed to the mission, reflecting his deep sense of duty and patriotism.

Upon completing his military service, Bob embarked on a distinguished career spanning 27 years with McDonnell Douglas, later Boeing. Throughout his tenure, he was not only a valued employee but also a compassionate provider, working diligently to support his beloved wife Shirley so she could devote herself to raising their children. Bob also owned and operated a Texaco Service Station in St. Louis. Bob’s professional life was a testament to his reliability, skill, and unyielding commitment to family.

Bob's personal qualities were as remarkable as his professional achievements. Known affectionately as “Smiling Bob,” he was a man of great intelligence and resourcefulness, a true jack of all trades who could fix nearly anything and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Those fortunate to know him admired his strength, perseverance, and the loving care he extended to his family and community. His days were often spent engaged in hobbies that reflected his hands-on nature—whether hunting, tinkering with cars, or simply piddling in the garage, Bob found joy in staying active and involved.

One of Bob’s greatest joys was his enduring marriage to Shirley Jean (née Reinhardt), whom he married when she was just sixteen after only one blind date. Their partnership spanned sixty-two years, filled with love and shared memories. The Hogan family was the center of Bob’s world, and nothing gave him more pride than his role as husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his sister, Mabel Pauline Johnson of St. Louis, his daughters Barbara Jean Zorn and Stacy Ann (Patrick) Zeitz, and his son Patrick James (Erin) Hogan. Bob’s legacy includes a loving extended family comprised of grandchildren Bryan (Catherine) Hogan, Amanda (Matthew) Willmore, Kelly (William Stubblefield) Parker, Saralyn (Jessica) Zorn, Emily (Andrew) Hanson, Amy Zeitz, Sophia Hogan, and Charley Hogan. He also delighted in his numerous great-grandchildren: Chad Parker, Virgil Mullen, Justin Hogan, Kylee Parker, Isabella Naramore, Sophia Reagan Mullen, Annabelle Hogan, Arlena Mullen, Hunter Stubblefield, Greysen Willmore, and Samantha Stubblefield.

Bob was preceded in death by his cherished wife Shirley Jean and his parents, Leon Edward and Sarah Helen (née Statton) Hogan. Though they now rest apart, Bob’s memory and spirit remain vibrantly alive in the hearts of all who knew him.

Bob J. Hogan’s life was a shining example of hard work, steadfast loyalty, and boundless love. His family remembers him as a man who never gave up, whose strength and kindness touched many, and whose smile could brighten even the darkest of days. In honoring his memory, we celebrate a life well-lived, rich with purpose, love, and dedication. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by those who had the privilege to share in his journey.