SPRINGFIELD, IL
Shirley Ann Bogren, 90, of Springfield, formerly of Bloomington, IL and Columbus, IN, passed away on Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at The Bridge Care Suites, Springfield, IL.
She was born October 1, 1933 in Erie, PA, the daughter of Arthur and Evelyn Marriner Durbin. She married Rev. Dr. Thor Bogren Jr on August 29, 1959, he preceded her in death on September 27, 2001. She was also preceded in death by one son, Erik Bogren in 2022 and one sister, Joan Durbin Dimmitt.
Surviving is a daughter, Kristin Bogren, Springfield and two nieces, Natalie (Tim) Matthewson of Ogilvie, MN and Debra Dimmitt of Nashville, TN.
Shirley received her bachelor’s degree from Park College in Parkville, MO and her master’s degree from the McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago, IL.
She worked as a teacher in Minonk High School, then as a substitute teacher for the junior high and high schools in Mendota. As the family traveled with her husband’s work, she became a teacher’s aide at the Heyworth grade school and last worked as a lifeguard and swimming instructor in Greensburg, IN.
Shirley was very devoted to the church where her husband pastored, in Minonk, Mendota, Normal, Greensburg, IN and Columbus, IN. She sang in the choirs and helped with the congregational and church events. After the death of her husband, Shirley continued her involvement by becoming active in church committees and various other positions, both at Fairlawn Presbyterian Church and at Love Chapel Center, both in Columbus, IN.
A memorial service will be held at 10 am on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at Fairlawn Presbyterian Church, Columbus, IN. A private inurnment will be at Garland Brook Cemetery, Columbus, IN. Cremation rites have been accorded by Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home, Bloomington, IL.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Love Chapel Center, 311 Center Street, Columbus, IN 47201.
To express condolences online, please visit www.carmodyflynn.com.
