Derek A. Dobogai Obituary

Hello,
We realize that we are very late to express our deepest condolences, but we wanted to let your family and friends know that we will be sending Care Packages to deployed troops this week and several of these will be dedicated to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo and hometown of Derek A. Dobogai US Army Captain.
We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community, their families and friends and others who support our mission.

We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.

Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of our US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign

To the family and friends of Capt. Derek A. Dobogai:
Always remembering Derek. "Some gave all."

To the family of Capt. Derek A. Dobogai:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Christian Memorial Day Remembrance worship service at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, 26 May 2013. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the bordering states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with some 300 white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.

The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses representing all of the wars of our nation's history and give honor to all who have served in the United States Armed Forces and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today. Wreaths will be placed at the foot of each 8-foot cross bearing the number of U.S. Service Members killed in each of America's conflicts.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled, “Freedom:Free, but Costly.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and there place poppies at each of the crosses. A Memorial Rifle Squad of the Fort Snelling National Cemetery will fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the Memorial Garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception (weather permitting) outside of the Chapel. The Memorial Garden will remain until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, 27 May (Memorial Day).

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (651/286-7296) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans' name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (651/286-7296) or email the office ([email protected]) and leave your name and contact information.

Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Saturday 25 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sunday, 26 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one's cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.

If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org

Thank you Capt. Derek Dobogai for your service to this country. You have not been forgotten.

To the family of Capt. Derek A. Dobogai:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Christian Memorial Day Remembrance worship service at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday 27 May 2012. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the bordering states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with some 300 white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.

The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses representing all of the wars of our nation's history and give honor to all who have served the United States and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today. Wreaths will be placed at the foot of each cross bearing the number of U.S. Service Members killed in each of America's conflicts.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled, “Lest We Forget Freedom's Cost.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. A Memorial Rifle Squad of the Fort Snelling National Cemetery will fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the Memorial Garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception (weather permitting) outside of the Chapel.

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (651/456-4410) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans' name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (651/456-4410) or email ([email protected]) the office, and leave your name and contact information.

Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Saturday 26 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sunday 27 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one's cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.

If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org

To the family and friends of Capt. Derek A. Dobogai:
Please accept my remembrance of Derek on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

To the family of Capt Derek A Dobogai:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 29 May 2011. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with some 200 white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one. The Memorial Garden’s perimeter will be manned by members of the Patriot Guard and a honor guard from AMVETS Post #1 of Mendota will be posted at the entrance.

The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses representing all of the wars in United States history and give honor to all who have served their country and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today. Wreaths will be placed at the foot of each cross bearing the number of U.S. Service Members killed in each of our nation’s wars.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled, “A Believer’s Look at War.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. A Memorial Rifle Squad of Fort Snelling National Cemetery will fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the memorial garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception (weather permitting) outside of the Chapel.

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (651/456-4410) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (651/456-4410) or email ([email protected]) the office and leave your name and contact information.

Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat 28 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun 29 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.

If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org

You are in our thoughts and prayers.

To the family and friends of Capt. Derek A. Dobogai:
Remembering Derek on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Thinking of Capt. Dobogai's family this weekend as I remember RIckey Bell, who lost his life in the same helicopter crash. May God be with you and bring you peace and comfort.

To the family of Capt. Derek A. Dobogai:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 30 May 2010. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.

The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses to represent all of the wars in United States history and give honor to all who have served their country and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled “A Day of Remembrance.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the memorial garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception; weather permitting will be outside of the Chapel.

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (612/970-7866) or email ([email protected]) the office and leave your name and contact information.

Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat 29 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun 30 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.

If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org

To the family of Capt. Derek A. Dobogai:
Derek gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

To the family of Capt. Derek A. Dobogai:

The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 24 May 2009. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled “Answering the Highest Call.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the memorial garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception in the Chapel’s Fellowship Hall.

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (612/970-7866) or email ([email protected]) the office and leave your name and contact information.

Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat 23 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun 24 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.

If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org

We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families at this time. This is a Nonprofit Organization to honor are Soldiers!
FREE OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING OF THIS HERO. COMPLETE FORM AT WWW.HEROPAINTINGS.COM
Please contact us! Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna

Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.


The Wind on The Downs

“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”

(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )

Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….

“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”


I did not know Derek, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Other Side

i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.

can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.

i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side

the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)

“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008


The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol



Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Capt Dobogai!

Derek Dobogai. What can I say about "Robo Dobo" The guy was one of my closest friends in the army. We went to IOBC together Ranger school together and I have just now had the courage to say what I can about my brother. The picture to the rght of this webpage contains me to his right. It was at Fort Benning after graduation from IOBC when we recieved our blue cords. He came back from Afghanistan and we spoke, he told me he finaly got a girlfriend, then he was going to Iraq. Recognizing that I volunteered as a Ranger fully knowing the hazards of my chosen profession, I will uphold the Ranger creed and high sprit de corps of my Ranger Regiment. I miss you buddy

I had the privilege to know Derek as we attended WLA together, had our lockers next to each other and many classes together through our 4 years of high school. Derek was such a funny guy. He was so polite, (if I'm not mistaken he was a Seniour Standout as the most polite of our class!) funny and just a great guy. There is one thing about Derek that I will never forget: It was homecoming week and we were in government class, I believe, and he walks in wearing a toga and a wreath on his head! As reserved as he sometimes seemed to be, there was always that side that made me laugh. He was a friend to me and in my heart always will be. Over the past months I have had a hard time dealing with the death of my friend. I take comfort in our Senior class verse..Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you." declares the Lord. "plans to prosper you and not to harm you. plans to give you hope and a future..." God had plans for Derek. We may not know why it happened but God has plans that we just don't see.....
So to my friend: I miss you greatly and will see you in heaven. We will walk the streets of gold and laugh like we used to. I know that you are at peace with the Lord sitting next to you. You no longer feel pain, or see hatred and war. I was looking forward to seeing you at our class renunion but I'll take heaven instead.
Thank you for being a hero and a great soldier to our country. But, mostly, thank you for always being my friend.
Your sister in Christ.
I'm so sorry for your loss. Derek was a wonderful Christian. Be proud your raised such a great son and brother. Derek served the Lord's purpose. I'm proud of him too.

To the family of Capt. Derek A. Dobogai:
We will be honoring your loved one at both of our services at Kenosha First Assembly of God on Sunday, May 25th, 2008. Our worship services are at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. We would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family.

We are located at 10700 75th Street in Kenosha, WI. We are right off I94 when you take the Hwy 50 exit East. First Assembly of God church will be on your Left as you drive East on Hwy. 50. Please feel free to call Nancy @ 705-1094 with any questions.

If you are unable to attend, we pray that you will find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and your family.

To the family of Capt. Derek A. Dobogai:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 25 May, 2008. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain, LTC Kenneth L. Beale, Jr. will preach a message entitled “The Price of Freedom” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played.

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org

Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat. 24 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun. 25 May, a “PrayerVigil for Peace” will be held. You are invited to stop by and light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden, then enter the Chapel for prayer.

If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Administrative Assistant
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org

I served in Ieaq with Derek while he was assigned to Bravo Company. He was a very great friend and a valuable leader. He was always upbeat and saw the good in every situation. He always made us smile. He was one of the finest soldiers I've met in my time. I miss havind him around. We still talk about him with great admiration at work. I'm so very sorry for the loss of his family, as well as the loss to us all. He's a Hero who'll never be replaced, never be forgotten, and always be honored in the memories of those with whom he served.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

A true American hero.God bless Derek and his family.

Derek was a fellow Soldier, Classmate and most importantly a friend. No words can express how Derek’s passing makes us all feel, but I hope you can take comfort in knowing that he had such a big impact on all of our lives. The world will not be as bright in the future without Derek here among us. Here’s to you Derek.

You are with Honor,

Very Respectfully

CPT Gabe Gecan
1-75 CAV, 2BCT, 101 ABN
WIU ALUMNI 04

I am very sorry for the loss of your BRAVE soldier! He is a true American Hero! He WILL NOT be forgotten! It was an Honor & Privilege for my wife and I to be allowed to escort Derek and stand guard at his final visitation and funeral. He is in a better place. Heaven was needing a Hero and definitely received a Hero when Derek arrived! May God Bless your entire family! "Freedom Isn't Free" NAM '69-'70

I didn't personally know Capt. Dobogai, but I do know your pain as I recently had a soldier killed in action. Many prayers from our family to yours for your sacrifice, and thank you so much for the hero the world was able know.

Sincerely,
Heidi Perry-Hipp
Calverton, NY
Proud Aunt of Spc. Matthew Murchison
KIA August 4, 2007 Baghdad

To Derek's Family,
My name is Captain Bryan Flynn and I served with your son for four short months during the Infantry Officer Basic Course at Ft Benning. Your son stood out among his peers for many reasons. His level of dedication and motivation was inspiring. He was physically and mentally strong and was a constant source of encouragement for everyone around him. I cannot say enough about how everyone that knew your son, liked and respected him. I am not a professional writer and I feel that I am not doing Derek justice with my description of him. Just know that my heart goes out to you and I am so sorry for your loss. Sincerely, Bryan Flynn

To the family of Capt. Derek Dobogai,
I am very sorry for your loss. My son Phillip was also on that helicoter with the other men. I take comfort knowing that my son was with the best and bravest men we have. God bless your entire family. If you should ever wish to contact me please do so.

My heartfelt sympathy to the Dobogai family in the loss of Derek. I did not know Derek, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. Derek you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom

"To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~

To the family for Capt Derek Dobogai,
I am truly sorry for the loss of your loved one. I, too, am feeling your pain as my fiance, Michael Hook, was aboard the plane also. Mike was due to come home next month, as we're expecting our first son.
I am truly sorry for your loss, and God Bless.

Dear Dobogai Family,
I was shocked to hear about your losing Derek. While working with Dave Sr. in Green Bay, I knew his one true love was his family. I cannot fathom your loss. God bless you and your family Dave. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Dear Dobogai family. I am so sorry to hear of your loss yet feel so relieved that your son knew his Lord and Savior. May your faith sustain you as you work through your grief.

To the entire extended Dobogai family:

There is nothing that either I or anyone else can say or do to bring Derek back. However, you should know how honored and privileged I was to call him my friend and brother in Christ. I don’t know that I have ever been more proud to call another person my friend than I am say to that of Derek. His humble determination to be the best he could be at everything and serve his country always made me want to be more like him.

The last two weeks have been difficult knowing that we won’t see his smile again or hear him laugh again. Yet, there is comfort in the words he wrote in his senior yearbook: “What I have learned…is that God is the one who is in charge of everything. All I need to do is trust in Him, and He will lead me where I need to go.” Let Derek’s words be a comfort to you that he was following God’s plan for him. Derek is in a place now where there is no war and no death, and we will all see him again one day in heaven. Praise be to God for his mercy.

My wife and I had the privilege of knowing Derek at WIU Army ROTC. I remember Derek as a good man and even though we were not close friends, we are deeply saddened to hear of his passing. My wife and I will be keeping Derek and his family in our prayers.

Dave,Lisa,David Jr, and Daniel
sorry to hear about your loss of your loved one words can not express how we feel and to know what you are going threw
GOD BLESS AND TAKE CARE LOVE ALWAYS
SHERRY AND TOM
JAMES--THOMAS--TONY--TORI--TRICIA--
AND-- TINA

To the Family and Friends of this Soldier:
I will stand in grief with this soldier's family to honor him. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guestbook for the rest of my life, but I promised Brent that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
We lost our son SFC Brent A. Adams on 12/1/05 and it seems like yesterday. I wish so badly there were things I could say to you right now to make the pain you are feeling go away, but I know first hand there simply are no words that will bring you the comfort and peace your heart aches for. Just know that you are not alone. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you go through this tragedy moment by moment and as you mourn this loss.
We don't know each other, will probably never meet, but will forever be united in the loss of our Heroes. We have, unfortunately joined a group none of us wanted to join, an ever-growing group of families in this situation. May God grant you peace and strength to get through this and be able once again to smile at a memory rather than have only the tears that flow so easily now. To be so proud of your loved one and so saddened at the same time is a mix of emotions very difficult to deal with as our hearts both burst with pride and pain together.
I am sorry that I never knew your soldier personally. While they can never be replaced, neither will they ever be forgotten. You must trust that sometime, someday the loving memories you have will help to sustain you and help you go on. This courageous soldier will forever be your Angel watching over you all for the rest of your lives. It's what brings me some measure of peace and comfort and I hope it will you as well.
To his family and friends in pain, I offer this comfort: When you find yourself in that dark sorrowful place, think not only of how you will miss him, but instead recall the years, days, hours and minutes gifted to you by his presence. The one thing that cannot be taken from you is your wonderful memories that now will mean more than ever.
If you ever want to talk, I'm only an e:mail away and would love for you to tell me more about your Hero.
God Bless this soldier and family who gave all and God Bless legacy.com for setting up this site where families can so quickly share their condolences and prayers with others like themselves.
Proud Parents of SFC Brent A. Adams, KIA, 12/1/05, Ramadi, Iraq
Pam and Bill Adams, Lancaster, PA

I am so very sorry for your loss. you can be so proud of your son.

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Capt Dobogai and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

It is with great pride that I call Derek my friend. I had the honor of knowing him at WIU.
I join you in grieving for your tremendous loss.
I was proud to know Derek.

Respectively and with deepest sympathy,

To the family and fellow friends of Derek,
I think that it would be an understatement to say that Derek will be missed here in this life. His smile and laughter, determination and strength, kindness, humility, and above all, his faith in his Savior are some of the things that I remember most about Derek. When I heard about his passing, I was saddened but then comforted knowing that Derek was a man of God. It may seem that his life was short, but the Lord called him to his heavenly home because his life was complete. After reading many of the entries here, it is amazing all the things that he had accomplished in his life. He touched so many lives, lived each day to the fullest, and by doing so lived a rich life.
May each of you be comforted, as I have been, knowing that Derek is with his Father in Heaven.

David, Lisa and Family, It has been many years since I have seen Derek, but I will always remember the joy he brought to my friend, his mother, Lisa and her husband David. What wonderful parents they are and I believe is a big part of why Derek was such a outstanding and special young man. Lisa and I, with our young children, would gather in each others homes and spend time together in Green Bay, Wisconsin. This is my memory of Derek. Laughing and having fun with his family and friends. By reading the many emails, Derek never changed. He touched many lives and went on to help try to make peace in the world. I do believe there is a special place for you in heaven, Derek. God Bless.

To the family of Capt. Derek A. Dobogai,

I took this photo many years ago and I had never found the right place to use it.

Once I read about your son I thought, "this man HAS traveled the true road to Heaven".

This photo has been with me for years and I thought I would share it with you.

Your son is and always will be a great PERSON for his selflessness..

My only regrets is not meeting a true HERO and gentleman....

God comfort you and your family for a truely great loss...


Sincerely,
The Semenas Family

To the Dobogai Family

I am very sorry for the loss of your fine American soldier and son. My son also serves in Iraq, 25th Infantry, 3rd Brigade out of Schofield Barracks. In his recent email to me, he remembered your son as ...the best junior leader the battalion had, extremely smart, fit, and as honorable a person as he had ever met - bar none. We mourn your loss and extend our condolences.

Dear Dobogais,
The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised. Job 1:21. May we all join in praising God for the gift Derek was to all of us.
Thank you, Dave & Lisa, for nurturing his faith through his Lutheran education. Because of this gift you gave to Derek, the Holy Spirit was able to shine Christ's love through him to all of us blessed to know him. We look forward to seeing Derek again and serving with him eternally. God be with you.

Be comforted in knowing that Derek's education at WLA prepared him well...for this life and the next.

With Sympathy,

To The Dobogai Family,

My deepest and most heartfelt sympathy goes out to you. Derek will always be remembered as an exceptional and dedicated young man. He acomplished so much in his short life, you should be so very proud.

To the family of Capt. Derek Dobogai,
I pray the Lord gives you strength while you endure such a loss (I know He will). I have a sincere appreciation for Derek's service to our country, as well as the sacrifices you as a family have made - Thank you.

I was blessed to have known Derek through my daughter Michelle. He was a selfless Christian man with an incredible sense of humor and love of life. Who can know how many lives he touched while on this earth, and with whom he shared God's love? I know that our family was blessed to know him; he is now at peace in Christ's arms. Be comforted to know that God is the Great Healer, and will hold you up in these difficult times.

I have watched this story unfold thanks to close friends of the Dobogai family. We all lost a great man and a great soldier here, but they lost a son. My sympathy and prayers go out to the family.

To the family:
All of the memories I have of Derek are all great memories. I know him as the man who always smiled. Thinking back I do not remember even one time when he was not smiling. Derek was someone who was nice no matter what was happening. I don't know why he was taken from us so soon, but I know that he is smiling down on us and watching over us next to God. I am sorry for your loss. I will keep you all in my prayers.

I work with Donna, Derek's Aunt at St. Luke's Medical Center. Donna talked about Derek often, I felt like I knew him. She was very proud of him. Our son is in the Navy and has been deployed to Iraq twice. I know how proud he is to service his country. Our family prayers are with Derek's family.
The Halkin Family
Vince, Kathy & Jeremy

I struggle to find the right words to say, as if there was something that could be said to ease someone's pain.

My regret is that I only had the honor of knowing Derek for the past few years. My husband Bill and Derek met at WIU and have been great friends ever since. He honored both Bill and I last year when he came to Illinois to be Bill's best man in our wedding.

I remember my maid of honor asking him about his speech, what was he going to say...had he prepared anything. When it came time for his toast, he was incredible. He slapped down a ream of copy paper on the wedding table, noting that yes, he HAD prepared a speech! He was able to make every single guest laugh and get teary all in one speech.

I remember all the times Bill would call Derek out in Hawaii. I always laughed becasue whenever we would call, Derek would say that he had gone diving, or that he was attempting to spear a fish. Never did he ever say that he was laying around, never doing nothing.

I want the family to know just how deeply sorry we are for the loss of their incredible son. He truely was a hero, and a best friend to many.

I know Derek through Capt Bill Ramsey. I understand the loss of a great American. Our prayers are for his family as I know Derek is will our Lord. The members of the Home Front Support Brigade keep all our troops close to their hearts. John 15 No Great Love has a man than to give up his life for a friend.

To the family of Derek
To me Derek was not just another Cadet when we went to Western ROTC together, he was a awesome guy. Derek was just so nice to everyone he made contact with, and always seemed to be happy. I truly think he best years were still way ahead of him. Derek would be great with whatever path he was going, and never look back. My heart goes out to all of you in this dificult time.

It is with Honor to say that I knew Capt. Derek Dobogai. Not only was he a man of courage, but a man of God. It is comforting that I know that he is at his eternal home. I will meet him there someday, but like our graduating class verse says, "For I know the plans that I have for you..." Jeremiah 29:11. We may not understand why things happen, but we know that we can always trust in the Lord. May you rest in God's peace Derek!

Capt. Derek A. Dobogai
you are my hero
may god keep you in his arms forever.

To the Mother, Brother, and Brother's girlfriend,
You guys visited our family in NC when Joshua Deese died almost a year ago in October. I feel like our family is going through Joshua's death all over again. I am so sorry for your loss and know that I am praying for your family.
Yours,
Jessica, cousin of Josh

Memories of Derek from school have always brought a smile. He was a genuinely nice guy who got along with everyone. We do not know why God called him home so early but we must find comfort in knowing he is now home. Derek touched many lives and will be missed by all who have had the oppurtunity to know him.
You are in our thoughts & prayers. God be with you.

To the parents of Derek, I would like to extend my heart felt sorrow as I know what you are going through and what you will yet go through in the coming weeks. I too am the mother of another fallen soldier and with God's continued support in my life I try to reach out to other who might need the support of someone who has been where you are. I want to offer you the support you may need to contact me anytime so that you may vent, talk or just seek comfort I am here for you. As a Gold Star Mother I've reached out through God's blessings to many across the country and we have a good support group. May God continue to give you and your family the love, comfort and healing that you need. In memory of my son SPC Harry (Buck) Winkler III KIA Samarra, Iraq November 12, 2006

PLEASE ACCEPT OUR SYMPATHIES FOR YOUR GREAT LOSS. WE DON'T HAVE TO KNOW DEREK PERSONALLY TO KNOW THAT HE WAS A COURAGEOUS, SELFLESS, AND FAITHFUL SOLDIER WHO WILL BE DEEPLY MISSED AND WHOSE SERVICE IS GREATLY APPRECIATED.
"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am." John 14:1-3

To the Derek Dobogai family:

Our deepest sympathy. Your faith will keep you strong and you know Derek is in the perfect place. As the parents of a Army Reservist currently deployed in Ramadi, our heart goes out to your family. I wish my son would have had the opportunity to serve under you son..he was obviously a fine officer. The character training these young men learn at our WELS area Lutheran high schools serves them will in the military.
Sincerely
Tim & Susan Probst

To Derek's Parents and Brothers (& Brother's Girlfriends),

I am so very sorry for your loss...for everyone's loss that knew Derek. I want you to know that I will never forget your family and how amazing I thought you all were when you came to visit Derek in Hawaii. My mom said she remembers me going on and on about how nice your family was and how much fun I had with you all (like swimming in the ocean at night in downtown Waikiki in our clothes). It's no wonder Derek was such an up-standing, warm-hearted man. I wish I could be there to hug each of you and offer my condolences in person. I won't even pretend to know the right thing to say because I know nothing anyone says will make this hurt any less for you, but I just want you to know that I care for you all and I'm so very sorry for your loss. I will forever hold on to the memories I made with Derek and his family.
Lot's of love,

Nothing that i could say could begin to describe the lost that you have suffered. I would like to say that what your son did is a honor to me. It takes someonoe of a special kind with the love for the fellow man, and that is just what Derek was and to that i give him the best salute a soldier could recieve. He will always to me be remembered as a hero.

Of the memories that I have of Derek, in grade school and high school, one theme is repeated over and over. Derek has always been someone worthy to look up to; a great roll model. May you find comfort in the Lord during this time, knowing that Derek will forever be with Him.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to you r family as you deal with the loss of your hero Derek. May the Lord grant you courage and comfort in the days and months ahead.

Tony and Carolyn Turner
Parents of Marine LCpl Colin P. Turner, 2nd Intel Battalion

I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

I am writing to offer my condolences to you and your family over the loss of your son Capt Derek A Dobogai. I lost my son in Iraq on May 6/2007, so I can well understand your pain of losing a child.

When things settle down, I recommend that you contact a man named Michael Reagan @
www.michaelgreaganartist.com


He will draw one portrait of the fallen soldier. He does this for free and will draw any picture of your choosing. He has drawn presidents and other celebrities. My husband and I got one and it has helped me with the healing process. Michael is a truly gifted artist that captures the very essence of the person he draws. I look at my picture everyday and it gives me a connection that I cannot explain.

I pray you will be guided by a higher power to give you peace, comfort and strength in this time.

Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit
GOD Bless you and your family. Your son was a true American Hero and we are all very proud of his service.

(Proud mother of Sgt Joel W. Lewis, 5/20, 3-2 SBCT -KIA May 6/07, Baqubah, Iraq)

REST IN PEACE DEREK, TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS MAY THE MEMORIES OF THIS WONDERFUL SOLDIERS LIFE FILL YOUR HEARTS WITH BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES
GOD BLESS YOU

Dear Dobogai family,
My name is Mark Vance, I am a retired Navy Chief Petty Officer and a WELS Christian. I served in the first gulf war and lost many friends just like your son Derek. I do not exactly know why the Lord chose to spare me while so many others he called home. I do know however, that as he did spare me it had to be so I may serve others in his service. I am currently the Director of Programs and Communication for the WELS Military Services Committee. Our committee stands with all the members of your WELS family world wide to pray for you, to mourn with you and to rejoice with you to know that Derek is with his Savior in Heaven. If we can be of any assistance in the days to come, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Your brother in Christ,
Mark

While we mourn with you on the passing of your Soldier, we also rejoice with you in the assurance of his eternal homecoming where he is experiencing the everlasting peace and joy that is found only in Jesus. Praying that God's love brings you comfort and strength, we are ...

Phil and Kim Hackbarth
WELS Blue Star Families
Parents of USMC LCpl Mike Hackbarth
Proud and Prayerful

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."

As the mother of a son who is deployed, I want to send my condolences. Please know that there are many, many people who grieve with you.

My prayers and thoughts are with you.
I know how you feel losing a "HERO",Becoming a "Gold Star" Mother myself on 25 March.. The sacrafice our sons and daughters are making on a daily basis should tell us all..These young HEROS knew full well what they were doing and did it proudly When you hug your loved ones tonight.... Remember... We also hugged ours and now they are protecting you..We.. as Americans need to make the "Ultimate Sacrafice" by supporting all our military(HEROS)...the Proud Mom of SGT. Jason W. Swiger
5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne,Fort Bragg, N.C. KIA 3/25/007

My sincere heartfelt condolences to the family of Capt Derek Dobogai who was a courageous soldier and an American hero. He will not be forgotten.
Lydia Daugherty, mother of CTT1 Steven Daugherty, KIA 07-06-07 Baghdad, Iraq

My Deepest and Most Heartfelt Sympathy goes out to the family of Capt. Derek A. Dobogai, with a Multitude of Thanks for this Brave Young Soldier's Courage, Dedication and Service to our Country and for Freedom.

The price Derek and his family have paid, Will Never Be Forgotten. May he Rest Safely, in God's Care and may the Peace of God be with the Dobogai family.
I am the Sister of such a young hero, who made the Ultimate Sacrifice in Vietnam, many years ago

"Surely He hath borne our grief,
and carried our sorrows."
~ Isaiah 53:4 ~

May you find comfort and strength, in the beautiful memories of times spent with Derek and quietly and gently, may healing come, with each new day.
You are in my thoughts and my prayers.

There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.

Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.

I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.

REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!

PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)

Capt. Derek Dobogai & Family:


Know in your heart that you are a true hero and will never be forgotten. All gave some, some gave all. Rest in peace. You will be missed by everyone’s life you have touched.

To the family, as the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family, friends, and all Americans for the sacrifice of one of your family members for our freedom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort in the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father.