Lewis Eugene Bogage

FRAMINGHAM - Rabbi Lewis Eugene Bogage, affectionately known as "Buz" to his family and friends, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026, at the age of 90. Buz's final days were spent in the gentle care of a skilled nursing center. Born on June 13, 1935, in Worcester, Massachusetts, Buz was the beloved son of Jonah and Gertrude Bogage.

Buz's life was a testament to spiritual guidance, insight and understanding, and a strong sense of community. He graduated from Worcester Classical High School in 1953 and pursued higher education at Clark University in Worcester. Driven by a calling to serve and guide others, he continued his studies at Hebrew Union College in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he was ordained as a Rabbi in June 1963. Over the span of more than six decades, Rabbi Bogage touched countless lives through his work both at community synagogues and with the Union of American Hebrew Congregations. He leaves a legacy of spiritual leadership at many congregations including Central Synagogue in Manhattan, Temple Micah in Denver, Congregation Beth Israel and Beth Israel Temple in Honesdale and Hazleton, PA and Congregation Ohr Shalom in Grand Junction, CO. His work with these and other communities as well as at UAHC summer camps left a lasting impact on the Jewish community nationwide.

Buz was blessed with a large family, both biological and from the many special relationships he cultivated throughout his long life. Sadly, he was predeceased by his grandson, Sam Hain. He leaves behind his children, Joshua, Rebekah and her husband, Steven Hain, Micah and his partner, Jen Knoetgen, and G Sanford, as well as his brother, J P Bo.

Buz's legacy continues through his grandchildren, Jakob, Ari, and Izi Hain, and stepchildren, Alisa, Daniel, and Sasha Nemchonok, along with their growing families. His life was enriched by the love of Harriet Levy, with whom he spent eighteen wonderful years, beginning in 2005. In addition to his own children and extended family, he was a mentor to multiple young adults who kept in contact with him and whose children also brought immense joy and warmth to his later years.

Buz's interests were as vibrant as his personality. An avid reader, sports fan, and news enthusiast, he found joy in the simple pleasures of life—basking in the sun, feeling the sand between his toes, and relishing the carefree spirit of a Jimmy Buffet tune while driving his convertible under the clear blue sky. His almost photographic memory, quick wit, and distinctive Worcester accent were hallmarks of his personality, endearing him to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A memorial service to celebrate Buz's remarkable life will be held on May 31, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the B'nai Brith Cemetery, located at 55 St. Johns Rd, Worcester, MA 01603. All are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, and in keeping with Buz’s commitment to the local Jewish Community, the family kindly requests donations be made to your local synagogue or in Buz's memory to Jewish Family Services of Metrowest, whose knowledgeable and compassionate staff provided invaluable support during his final years. Donations can be made through their website at https://jfsmw.org/.

Buz's legacy will forever be remembered in the hearts of those he touched, his spirit continuing to guide and inspire us all.

The Memorial Service for Rabbi Lewis Eugene Bogage will be available for live streaming (and after) beginning at 11:00 AM on Sunday, May 31st, 2026 via the following link: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/a26048003073072.