Obituary of Coach Dave Bogataj

July 10, 1969 – July 29, 2017

Coach Dave Bogataj, Age 48 of Flat Rock.

Beloved husband of Kerry Bogataj. Loving father of Seth Bogataj and Piper Bogataj. Dearest son of David Bogataj, Sr. and Donna Bogataj. Dear brother of Stacy (Michael) Lynett. Uncle of Jacob Lynett, Patrick McGehee, Emily McGehee, Liam McGehee Marley, and Aine McGehee Marley.

A college fund is being set up for the Bogataj children. In lieu of flowers, checks may be made to Michigan Educational Savings Program.

FAMILY TRIBUTE

Above all else, David loved his family. Together they enjoyed family dinners – with manners at the table; barbequing while watching Kerry, Seth and Piper play basketball while he cooked; eating ice cream; watching Super hero movies, especially David and Piper -- Dave always insisted on waiting through the credits to see the outtakes; spending time on Manitoulin Island and in Cheboygan while fishing, boating, playing Euchre and enjoying each other’s company; listening to 70s music; setting annoying ringtones on his phone, like the Godzilla roar; mixing iced tea with lemonade or any other juice in the fridge; and watching Seth and Piper play all their sports for many years.

He loved teaching at Allen Park Middle School, where he spent his entire career. Interacting with his Physical Education students was the reason he loved teaching, often times giving his students goofy nicknames. He always had a feeling at home with this age group. He would cook in his mini-Crockpot for lunches and he loved buying Nike tennis shoes – all models and colors!

He loved his friends. Many memories include: dining at Michaels on the River; hanging out with families; playing card games or just visiting; and sharing trips together. He loved coaching basketball: the excitement of the games – crowds cheering; lots of loud music and noise; tough competitions; keeping stats (been doing it since he was 7 years old keeping them on the Tigers); arguing with the refs (respectfully, of course!); choosing new uniforms (loved those black ones!) and having after game “discussions” with other coaches at Big Bear. In short, David loved his life! And we all loved him!