John Edward Boughan Jr.'s Obituary
John Edward Boughan, Jr., of Hillsboro Missouri, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026, at the age of 57.
He is survived by: his wife, Rita Lynn Boughan. A beautifully matched union of 40 years; son, Alex (Brittany) Boughan; daughter, Emily (Trenton) Gresham; mother, Joanne Keane; stepfather, George Keane; father, John Boughan, Sr.; sisters, Elaine (Dan) Conroy and Marnie (Jeff) Hartwig; grandsons; Kolby and Quentin Boughan; father-in-law, Russell Cates; sister in law, Sara Cates; niece, Katlyn Dankel; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. John was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Shawn Cates.
After Shawn’s passing, John received the ultimate gift through Shawn's direct liver donation. This precious gift gave John an additional 12 years of life. In those years, he was able to see Alex marry and become a father, and see Emily graduate high school and marry. He also had the blessing of getting to build a relationship with his grandsons, who lovingly call him “Big Boss.”
John also joins: his grandparents, Everett and Harriet Boughan; Sara and Joseph Bommarito; nephews, Matthew Lovetto and Garrick Evans; and mother-in-law, Marita Cates. John fought many battles in life; surprising those that knew him with his unmistakable strength and resilience on countless occasions. It was this deep determination that allowed for all of the cherished moments with his family and friends.
John had so much support from Jason Ellis & “Fam” and the entire family are so very grateful. The family also has heartfelt appreciation for the incredible teams of doctors and nurses at St. Louis University Hospital that cared for John during his many medical challenges and surgeries.
John loved his music, whether it be heavy metal or Fleetwood Mac. He enjoyed playing his electric
guitar, growing vegetables and herbs, and was a culinary wizard. He had an awesome sense of humor, which he playfully enjoyed sharing with his sisters. He shared his love of music, survival and cooking shows, and countless hours working puzzles with his wife as they danced through life as one; and for eternity they shall remain.
John spent his last day with his wife by his side and surrounded by his family. The feelings of love were
all encompassing and he was absolutely saturated in it. His final moments were peaceful as he slowly drifted home to be with the Lord. The love for John will carry on through those that were lucky enough to know him and he will be deeply missed by them all.
Celebration of life details will be forthcoming.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Mid-America Transplant Foundation in John's name and honor. (1110 Highlands Plaza Dr. East, Suite 100, St. Louis, MO 63110)
Services provided by Hughes Funeral Alternatives in St. Louis, Missouri. Family and friends can sign an online guestbook at https://www.HughesFA.com
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