Gerald Bogen

Gerald Joel Bogen was president of the Derby-Shelton Rotary Club in 1957-1958. Gerald preferred to be known as Jerry. He grew up in Shelton where his father ran a small market that was across from the former Commodore Hull School. Throughout his life, he pursued his interest in golf. Known for his colorful knickers and significant handicap, he played in many area tournaments and helped support the charitable causes. He completed his associate accounting degree. He had great success in partnering in the development of the Derby Oil Company. He devoted volunteer time to the Griffin Hospital helping to raise funds for new construction and serving as a corporator. He was active in his synagogue. He looked forward to calling out the bingo numbers to many loyal players. He donated repeatedly to planting trees in Israel, where he had family who had survived the Holocaust. He admired the work of Scout Master Ed Strang and helped support the Scouts. 

He was glad that he was successful in helping the New Haven Symphony too. He was a recipient of a Gold Seal Award. He loved to line dance at parties. His love of travel was enhanced by going to Rotary meetings around the world and bringing back mementos and memories he had with his wife Helen. Together they wanted to give back to their community. They knew their hard work, team work, had provided them with a level of comfort in contrast to their early lean days. One way they did that was to establish a scholarship fund that has helped Valley kids for years. His struggles with Alzheimer’s for much of his later life were supported by his family. He was one of those people regarded as “old school” Valley who helped foster the community spirit that is still the hallmark of the area. Jerry passed away in 1999.