Making a will can feel like a daunting task, but it’s definitely worth the effort, said David “Bogey” Bogenschild ’59, a former Milwaukee Panther athlete, teacher and track coach. During his lifetime, Bogey was a longtime supporter of Milwaukee Panther Athletics, and shortly before his passing in June 2024 at the age 89, he made the decision to include the UWM Foundation in his estate plans.
“I loved my time at UWM, but it wasn’t always easy. I remember the pride and joy in getting over all types of hurdles,” Bogey recalled in our conversations with him. “And it wasn’t easy to get over the hurdle of writing up my will and plans, but it turned into a welcoming exercise of bringing forth memories and reminding myself of the joys in my life—many made possible because of my time at UWM.”
Panther track star Natalie Block is one student who has benefited from Bogey’s generosity and thinks of his impact on her life fondly.
“Your gift might be a small thing to you, but it has made all the difference to me,” she said. “Because of donor support of student-athletes, I have friends I will treasure for a lifetime and academic hurdles to conquer. How lucky am I?!”
Jenny Gryniewicz, the former advancement director for Milwaukee Panther Athletics, wrote in honor of Bogey’s memory and impact, “David ‘Bogey’ Bogenschild, we say farewell to a friend whose generosity and humor touched my life profoundly. Bogey, a cherished UWM donor, transformed my approach to fundraising and left an indelible mark on my heart. I think about him almost every day.
“Bogey’s influence has forever shaped the lives of all who had the privilege of crossing paths with him—through teaching, coaching, gardening, giving, he did everything with kindness and warmth (and humor)!”
Earlier this year, Bogey encouraged UWM alumni and friends to follow his example of making a will. “Want to be joyful and happy like me? Do your estate plans, and yes, share your happiness by including the UWM Foundation!”
If you’d like to learn more about how you can make a transformational difference in a student‘s life just like Bogey, contact Mary Frieseke, MBA, today at (414) 229-2573 or friesekm@uwm.edu to get started.