Francis Ogden 08/29/2024

Francis “Frank” Herman Ogden, born on June 7, 1937, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories, accomplishments, and friendships. Frank was the eldest of four sons born to Herman and Evelyn (Pendelton) Ogden. He grew up in La Crosse, where he developed a deep love for the outdoors, spending much of his childhood fishing and adventuring along the Mississippi River with his brothers.
Frank graduated from La Crosse Aquinas High School in 1955 and went on to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison. There, he earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and met the love of his life, Rose Marie Caygill. The two were married shortly after his graduation in 1960 and initially moved to California, where Frank began his career as a civil engineer for State of California highway department. However, they soon decided to return to Wisconsin to be closer to family and start their own family. They settled in Eau Claire, where all three of their children, Teresa, Michael, and Daniel, were born. During this time, Frank worked as a civil engineer for the state of Wisconsin and was heavily involved in the construction of Interstate 94 between Hudson and Osseo, a pivotal project in his early career.
Frank’s career took another significant step forward when he moved his family to River Falls, Wisconsin, where he was hired as the City Engineer. At the same time, Frank started his own firm, Ogden Engineering, which he ran successfully until his retirement in 2002. Over the years, Frank also served as a city engineer for several smaller towns, lending his expertise to various communities. He was instrumental in developing numerous housing projects and bridges in the St Croix and Pierce County area, earning him a reputation as a respected expert in his field. Frank was actively involved in various local boards and organizations, and his work with Habitat for Humanity was especially meaningful to him.
Frank was an avid outdoorsman and wildlife conservationist who was always seeking new adventures. He loved hunting deer, turkeys and small game especially ruffed grouse, as well as fishing. His beloved retreat, known affectionately as “the shack,” was Ogden’s Plum Valley Hunting Camp in Waverly, Wisconsin. Frank was always out at the shack, building new deer stands and roads to make it a better hunting spot for all. He spent countless hours managing the land, creating memories with friends and family, and showcasing his love of the hunt through the many photos and trophies that adorned the walls. After his retirement, Frank dedicated most of his time to being at the shack, immersed in the outdoor activities he cherished.
Frank is survived by his children, Teresa Repaal, Michael (Rebecca) Ogden, and Daniel (Robyn) Ogden, as well as his grandchildren, Autumn, Alec, and Trevor Ogden. He is also survived by his brother, Thomas (Pat) Ogden. Frank was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Rose Marie, and his brothers Robert and James.
Frank’s life was marked by his dedication to family, his passion for the outdoors, and his commitment to community and wildlife conservation. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, September 23, 2024 at 3:00PM at Saint Bridget Catholic Church (211 E Division Street River Falls WI 54022) with a visitation starting at 1:00PM. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.

Click here to watch the livestream of Frank’s service.