Obituary
Obituary of Ulla Eva-Maria Bogdan
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Our Beloved Ulla
Our beloved Ulla Eva-Maria Bogdan, nee Seeger sadly passed away on February 16, 2023, at the age of 79. Ulla was a loving wife to Victor for 53 years, wonderful mother to Michael (and wife Isidra Veve) and Nina (and husband John Helmsen), and doting grandmother to Alexander and Andrew Bogdan. Ulla was a great sister to Ute Ursula Keppler (nee Seeger) and terrific aunt to Susanne, Hannes and Katja. She was always there for her loved ones. Ulla was artistic, she had a natural curiosity for life, and adored travelling in order to meet fascinating people and discover new places.
In her full life, she mastered four languages, received her undergraduate degree in Education from the German Teachers College, and then received her Masters of Education from the Catholic University of America. Ulla was very proficient in her studies and was encouraged by the Vice President of Catholic University of America to pursue a Doctorate of Philosophy in Education, but she opted to explore and master the emerging field of Computer Science, when computer programming was in its infancy (back in the days of punch cards and main frame computers). Her love for learning led to many academic accolades.
In her long career, Ulla mastered many fields. She taught elementary school in Germany for several years, served as an Editor for The World Future Society before volunteering within Montgomery County Public Schools at the Rockville High School Library. Her library colleagues were impressed with Ulla's outstanding volunteer efforts, which fully demonstrated her comprehensive knowledge of library sciences, her wonderful ability to connect with students, and her talent to answer any computer programming questions, that they encouraged her to apply for the Assistant Librarian position under the title Media Assistant. Ulla happily accepted this opportunity to officially join the Rockville High School Library. She adored working with the students for many years before retiring to her most favorite "job" of joyous grandmother.
Ulla travelled the world, was a dedicated full-time mother, then enthusiastic grandmother to Alexander and Andrew. She passed on her love of books to her grandsons, reveled in their travels across the United States and the wider world, and celebrated their successes as she witnessed their major life milestones.
Our father, Victor, wanted everyone to know that Ulla was his dream girl as he fondly recalled a discussion with a dear friend and fellow professor on what the top ten traits his future wife would possess. His friend said to him, "Such a person cannot exist."
Years later, Ulla, Victor and one-year old baby Nina travelled to Montreal where they were reunited with this friend during a sabbatical abroad. Ulla was delighted to explore the stunning city of Montreal, she spoke with ease in French and English quickly switching between the two languages. She hosted the most wonderful dinners. After several months of spending much time together, Victor's friend congratulated him on finding his ideal girl, "I stand corrected, such a phenomenal woman does indeed exist. Ulla is truly special."
Our father, Victor, feels that he was blessed to find the love of his life in our wonderful mother, Ulla. He knew she was the wife for him when she beat him at chess in successive games. He proposed the next day on a bicycle ride along the C&O Canal.
Our mother, Ulla, always brought out the best in Victor, he was happiest by her side. You just have to look at their photos to see the smiles and love. He delighted in dancing through life with his dearest Ulla, as they shared many joys together.
Victor cherishes every moment with his beloved. He is heartbroken at losing the love of his life much too soon.
All who knew Ulla spoke of her kindness, her gentle spirit, and willingness to help. She touched all who met her and left their lives richer because of her friendship. Ulla will be dearly missed.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in loving memory of Ulla Eva-Maria Bogdan to her favorite place Brookside Gardens (in Wheaton, Maryland).
Ulla will be laid to rest at Parklawn Memorial. Private services will be held.