Erich Vogel had a gentle personality and a witty sense of humor. He loved many things, but most of all he loved his wife Bethany and their son Kieran. On August 6, 2009, the day began like any other, but for Erich it would be his last despite best medical efforts to save him. At age 41, Erich had registered as a donor, believing he could help someone else much as Bethany's knees had been restored with bone allografts. In all, he helped more than 64 people with his gifts of tissue and bone, while his corneas helped two people to regain their sight.

Erich's Story

Erich Richard Vogel had a gentle, easy going personality. He was known for putting others, especially his friends, first. Gifted with a witty sense of humor, he enjoyed making others laugh and bringing out the joy to all those around him. Erich loved watching movies and sports, playing games, listening to music (his favorite was Oingo Boingo), cooking and reading. But most of all he loved his wife Bethany and their son Kieran. Bethany remembered him as "the brightest part of my day, always making me smile and laugh."

August 6, 2009 began like any other, with no reason to believe that the Vogel family would never be the same after that day. "While I was at work, I received a frantic call that there was something wrong with Erich," Bethany said. As he was being transported to the hospital, fear and disbelief were setting in as Bethany saw 41-year-old Erich was not responding to treatment. "I watched as the doctor called the time of death, and I informed his nurse that Erich was a registered donor."

Erich's driver's license showed he was a registered donor, but Bethany did not believe he fully understood what was involved. To him it was simple: if he were no longer living, perhaps he could help someone else. Erich had supported Bethany through many knee surgeries, including one that required a bone allograft.

"I decided that I wanted to make his death a positive moment, not only to help myself understand what had happened but also for our son," Bethany said. "I wanted to try and help others in any way possible."

In fact, Erich helped enrich the lives of 64 others with his gift of life. He donated his corneas to two people in New York. His skin and bones have helped in many reconstructive surgeries across the U.S.

"It is nice knowing that he was able to help so many others," said Bethany. "We feel humbled and blessed to have honored his wishes."