Memorial Sketch for a Devout Christian
(Can be adapted as a living biography)
Anton Bogdonovich
Those who are quiet and always there to help others are not fully appreciated until they are gone. So it was with Anton Bogdonovich, known to his many friends and family as Anthony, an indispensable source of support for many.
He was born in Croatia, in a small town in the mountains above the sea, into a family of builders. His grandfather built farmhouses out of stone; his father renovated and built houses, barns, and many beautiful living spaces that overlook the beaches and hiking trails. The family came Canada and worked for many years in the building trades—an integral part of the city of Toronto and its Croatian community, and hard workers that those of us who live in the city depend on to keep our homes up to par.
As it says in the Book of Corinthians:
According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each man must be careful how he builds on it. For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Like the master builder, Anthony built and repaired and renovated on a the best foundation: love. Not only was he a hard worker, but he was generous with his time and expertise. When his brother needed a new furnace, he showed up with one in the back. When a friend needed a sponsor to emigrate, he signed the papers.
Anthony built a successful business renovating homes and furnaces. He brought warmth to many peoples’ lives, literally and figuratively, in other words. He loved fishing with his son James, and he shepherded his daughter Lydia to ballet classes, swim meets wherever she needed to go.
As well as a family who loved him dearly, he had lots of friends, especially in Naperville, where he moved just six years ago. He had a big heart, and was always offering help to acquantances who needed it. He liked cooking, especially barbecuing chicken and steak in his yard. When he had time, he enjoyed fishing on the Fox River as well. He was known to all as a loving man, one who was mellow, and seldom if ever did he show anger.
Goodness and mercy were qualities that Paul showed in his work and in his deeds. And he dwells now in the Lord’s house, which probably doesn’t need much renovation, so he is certainly at peace. My hope is that the family and friends who have gathered here will also find peace, as well as solace in the memories of the love he showed to all.
His wife, Ursula, asks God to strengthen her and bless all of those who mourn him. , and may the Holy Spirit strengthen your hearts and enlighten your minds as you go forth. May the blessing of strength be with them; may the God of Peace be with them; though your hearts are broken at the loss of Anthony, his spirit, his work, and his memory will stay with all.
We call upon God to lift Anthony into his life and enfold him in his mercy, and to give comfort to all who mourn him and whose spirits are wounded.
