He was born December 30, 1949, in Greenville, Ohio to the late Clarence and Dorothy (Commons) Vogler. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Joie Vogler-Bussell.
Rex is survived by his daughters; Kim (Rick) Ware of Versailles, Ohio and Kelly (Andy) Kunkler of St. Henry, Ohio; five grandchildren; Richie, Jeffrey and Madison Ware and Abigail and Carolyn Kunkler; brother, Clarence (Judy) Vogler of Florida; three aunts, Marjorie Bishop of Greenville, Ohio, Karen Shaw of California and Wilma Vogler of Dayton, Ohio. He is also survived by his nephew, Chad Vogler and niece, Cheri (Kenny) Hallock, all of Florida as well as cousins and close friends that were considered family.
Rex was the owner of Vogler’s Cleaning and Restoration Company. Most recently he was a self-employed contractor. He attended Palestine Elementary School then transferred to Ansonia schools where he excelled in football and basketball. He graduated in 1968. He attended Ashland University and Wright State University. He was active with Darke Countians for Wildlife Conservation, and Fur, Fish and Game 4-H Club for many years. He donated many hand-made items to Pheasants Forever and to his friends. He was a brave, resilient man evidenced many times over. He saved a stranger’s life by running into a burning building, and carrying him out to safety. He survived a horrible car wreck in Greenville, and a boat wreck in Canada, where the boat sunk, and took eight hours to be found. He lost his leg in 2008, due to an arterial blood clot. He cared for his wife and mother as they battled cancer. He worked on many dangerous projects, and removed many unwanted animals from places they did not belong. He was a generous man. In addition to his time, money, and hand-made items, he donated over ten gallons of blood. People looked forward to him bringing them his delicious fudge that he learned to make from his mother.
Rex enjoyed hunting, camping, trapping, wildlife, nature, and photography. He frequently went looking for artifacts on land and in rivers. He especially enjoyed Peace River in Florida. He participated in many hawk and knife competitions along with pre 1840’s reenactments. He was a true outdoorsman. He was artistic and made gorgeous items that included: leather pouches, knife handles, and coat racks made from deer antlers. He collected Native American memorabilia. From the age of 16, he spent a significant amount of time in Chapleau, Canada, making it a second home. He spent many evenings watching his grandkids play sports and enjoyed having stimulating conversations with friends and strangers. He had a strong personality that made him memorable to everyone he met. He was a good friend, and had good friends in return. His beautiful blue eyes will be greatly missed.
A celebration of life will take place at: 3444 Elroy-Ansonia Road Ansonia, Ohio 45303 Sunday, July 10, 2016 starting at 5:30 P.M. Casual dress is appropriate.
Memorial contributions may be made to Darke Countians for Wildlife Conservation, PO Box 1131 Greenville, Ohio 45331.
Oliver Floyd Funeral Home entrusted with the arrangements.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.oliverfloyd.com.