Russ was born on October 17, 1931, to Russell and Drusilla (Henderson) Boogren. He was the first-born child with five siblings to follow. Russ spent a lot of time in Siren, WI at his grandparent’s farm during WWII. He even had a pet cow, Billy. As much as he enjoyed the farm and helping out his grandparents, Russ was very proud of his Eastside roots. During high school he worked at Borgstrom Pharmacy on Payne Ave. as a soda jerk, which is where he met the love of his life, Beverly. He graduated from Johnson High School in 1949 and on April 19, 1952, he married Bev, embarking on a journey of love, companionship and “pulling together”.  After a stint in the Air Force, Russ and Bev settled back on the Eastside. Bev worked full time and helped put Russ through pharmacy school at the U of M.  He graduated in 1957 and went back to work at Borgstrom's where he spent a total of nearly 50 years.  The couple welcomed Bradley Arthur in 1959 and Brenda Kay in 1962.  

Russ was extremely active in business, professional, church, neighborhood and social activities throughout his long life.  Highlights include his service to the MN Pharmacist's Association, the Payne Arcade Business Association, the U of M College of Pharmacy, Shriners Hospital for Children and Arlington Hills Lutheran Church.  He was also a proud member of the Montgomery Lodge, the Osman Shrine, Indian Hills Golf Club and the Royal Order of Jesters. Russ and Bev made their home in St. Paul, Little Canada and Cottage Grove through their years together.  Bev passed away in 2022 and Russ decided that he could handle one more adventure.  He moved to the Palm Springs area in Southern California with Brad and Jon.  Although he missed his friends in MN, he absolutely loved the warmth and sunshine in CA.  He was particularly fond of seeing the snow on the mountain tops as long as he didn't have to shovel it.  

Russ was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and one sister, as well as his beloved Beverly.  Survivors include son Brad (Jon Goodrich), daughter Rev. Brenda (Moira Forrest), brother Rodger, many nieces, nephews, and godchildren, and his canine companion Ole.  Memorials preferred to Osman Shrine Auxiliary, All Saints Lutheran Church or donor's choice.