of Mountain Home, AR
March 18, 1943 - November 9, 2025
John Boogaart, 82, left behind a legacy of faith, love, and service that touched countless lives when he entered his heavenly home on November 9, 2025.
John was born in Jewell, Kansas, to Agar and Juin Helmick on March 18, 1943. He spent his early years in Kansas before moving to Mountain Home, Arkansas, during junior high. He was adopted as a teenager by his stepfather, Mr. Boogaart. A proud graduate of Mountain Home High School Class of 1961, John went on to earn his degree in education from the University of Arkansas.
On November 2, 1967, John married the love of his life, Carol Jo Wheeler, and together they celebrated 58 years of marriage.
With his education degree, John began his career as a teacher and coach, inspiring students in Elkins, Yellville, and Mountain Home. His dedication to education continued as he later served on the Mountain Home School Board.
John was a realtor for Gilbert Realty for many years and served a term as president of the North Central Arkansas Board of Realtors.
John was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Mountain Home. He served as a deacon and as an Upward basketball coach. When winter weather kept FBC from gathering, John would worship with the Methodist congregation, who affectionately referred to him as "John the Baptist."
A lifelong sports enthusiast, John played basketball, baseball, football, and ran track in high school. He is still listed as a record holder for baseball in the Arkansas Activities Association Record Book. In recognition of his dedication to athletics, John was inducted into the Mountain Home High School Athletic Hall of Honor both individually and as a member of the 1960 undefeated Bomber football team. His love of sports carried through his life as he coached youth teams, played and coached men's softball for many years, and supported his favorite teams.
John found great joy in simple pleasures - decorating his home and yard with Christmas lights, tending to his flowers, and walking through his neighborhood. His bright spirit, much like his Christmas displays, brought light and warmth to all who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved bride, Carol Jo, daughter Jennifer (Richard) Rogers and son Jeff (Jennifer) Boogaart; his grandchildren Ryan (Katelyn) Rogers, Lauren (Ian) Bryan, Erin (Lane) Long, Meredith Boogaart, Sheridan Rogers, and Cameron Rogers; great-grandsons Bentley and Brody Bryan, and his first great-granddaughter who is joyfully expected. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Janice (John) Harris; nieces Kayren (Robert) Cross and Michelle Gray; along with cousins, great-nieces, great-nephews, and special family members whom he dearly loved.
John Boogaart's life was one of faith, family, and service to his community. His kindness, humor, gentleness, and steadfast love reflected the heart of Christ, and his legacy will continue to shine through all who were blessed to know him.
In lieu of flowers and in celebration of John's life, the family requests memorials be made to the Soul Sneakers basketball/cheer program at FBC.
A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November. 15, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Mountain Home. The family will receive visitors at 10:00 a.m.