Darin Boggs passed away September 30, 2022.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 31 years, Beth Clemens Boggs. He is also survived by his father, James Franklin Boggs, his father’s loving wife, Evelyn, and his mother, Mildred Lynn Russo.
Darin was also survived by siblings in law, Alan and Amy Jo Clemens, Brian Clemens, Matthew Clemens and Sarah Lunn, along with nieces and nephews, Emily Clemens, Thomas Clemens, Nicholas Clemens, Jacob Clemens, Katherine Clemens, Danny Clemens, Alexis Whalen, Madeline Clemens and Taylor Lunn. Beth and Darin are also proud godparents to Thomas Clemens, T.J. Sims and Catie Sims. Darin was devoted to his nieces and nephews, and was especially proud that he taught his niece, Taylor, to swim.
Darin graduated from Edwardsville High School in 1983 and attended the University of Illinois, graduating in 1987. While at Illinois he was a member of the Phi Kappa Theta fraternity and was also an accomplished musician. He was the drum major for Edwardsville High School Marching Band, and also a proud member of the Marching Illini and Illini Pep Band. In 1984, he marched in the Tournament of Roses parade. He maintained until his death that the Marching Illini was more prepared for the Rose Bowl performance that year than was the football team. Nonetheless, he remained a devoted fan of all University of Illinois sports throughout his life.
He attended law school at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, graduating in 1990. It was during his law school days that he honed his love of Quatro’s pizza and Mt. Dew, and he met the love of life and his best friend, Beth. Darin often remarked that Beth was “the smartest person he has ever known,” Darin’s love of fine pizza continued after law school and once when asked if he could live anywhere in the world, where would you live, he replied “in an apartment above J.J. Twigs Pizza”.
Darin was a devoted fan of all St. Louis area sports, especially, the Cardinals, Blues, and Grizzlies and was a season ticket holder for all three. Darin was a regular presence in his seats in Section 168 of Busch Stadium. Darin also developed a strong affection for the Chicago Bears following the Rams departure. Darin unfortunately missed watching Albert Pujols’ 700th home run, due to a personal grievance with paid streaming services.
Darin and Beth have been endlessly devoted to numerous charitable endeavors over the years, including the Step It Up Foundation, which has provided free footwear to countless St. Louis families since 2005. He was also a proud supporter of Ritenour Co-Care Food Pantry, Operation Food Search, The Jennings Community Food Pantry, the SIU Foundation, NAACP, The Little Bit Foundation, Catholic Charities, The Clemens Family Scholarship Fund and SIU Law Ping Pong Scholarship, and numerous others.
Darin was an avid, although poor golfer, and greatly admired the golfing skills of his good friends, Rich Donner and Joe Ruppert, with whom he had many golf outings.
There will be a celebration of life held at his favorite place to entertain his numerous nieces and nephews, which was “Dave & Busters”, on a date to be determined.
All lives have good days and bad, and on trying days, Darin took comfort from the following Emerson quote:
The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be
compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.
Darin lived well.
Instead of flowers, Darin would hope that you might leave a donation to Step It Up or the SIU Law Ping Pong Scholarship or do an unexpected act of kindness for someone less fortunate, as he, himself often did.
Beth,
We extend our deepest and sincere condolences to you and your family. Darin will always remain in our hearts and prayers. He will be greatly missed.
We are thinking of you and grieving with you. We are here if you need anything.
Love always, The Sawyer’s <3
Beth, we are shocked and saddened by Darins passing. Our hearts and sympathies go out to you.
Beth
I am so saddened to hear about Darin’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are being sent and sending you lots of hugs. He will be missed by so many. If you need anything, please please let me know.
Beth, Paul and I are deeply sorry for your loss. We were fortunate enough to enjoy Darin’s company on several occasions. I’m sure he will be missed by all. R.I.P. Darin and prayers and hugs to you dear.❤
I had the absolute pleasure of getting to know Darin over many years as a result of Darin and Beth’s involvement in NAMWOLF. Darin was such a genuinely sweet and compassionate man who was always thinking of others, including me during some issues I was having over the years. I just saw Darin a few weeks ago in Chicago and he again did something so kind for me. He was the consummate “giver” who never expected anything in return but boy did he have the respect and love of all he touched. He will be missed. My deepest condolences to Beth and Darin’s family.
Beth, our deepest condolences to you in this sad time. Darin was a good and decent person and many will miss him. Our deepest sympathies, Allen and Fran
Beth,
Mike and I send our heartfelt sympathies. Darin was an amazing person and will be deeply missed by so many. I will always treasure all the Cardinal games we went to over the years and how much Darin loved to watch the Cardinals play. God Bless you and give you comfort during this difficult time.
Roger and I are deeply saddened by Darin’s passing. He was a special man and exceptional friend to many. We are keeping Darin’s family and dear Beth, in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.
There are those people that bring a light so bright to the world around them that even after they are gone, the light remains. Darin was this person. Beth, Mike and I want you to know we are thinking about you and pray that all the wonderful memories you and Darin made together will bring you some peace. Darin will be missed by so many.
Deepest condolences, Beth. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
To the family members, my condolences, thoughts and prayers. It is shocking and truly sad news. He was way too young. It is a reminder that life is to be lived to the fullest every day. Bogwan (our nickname for Darin) was a special treat to hang out with as he always made me laugh. It is a reminder to never take yourself too seriously.
-Munz
My deepest condolences to you and your family for your loss. There are no words and my heat goes out to you.
Dear Beth,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Though we didn’t know him well, we could tell he was an amazing person. A very kind and generous soul for sure! His passing will be felt for a very long time by all that knew him. From a member of the “COW SQUAD,” thanks for the memories!
Darin, your presence is definitely missed in the north end hallway. There is a huge noticeable void without you. You were one of the most kind, generous, thoughtful men I have known. You never failed to make me laugh no matter how bad the day had been. I loved asking you questions regarding cases in German, even though you had no idea what I was saying. It was my pleasure to work for you. Ruhe in Frieden mein Freund.
I had the pleasure to meet Darin on a few occasions. He was always nice, genuine, and friendly. Most importantly he put us at ease in a difficult situation. I never saw Beth without him. I had the honor today to listen to Beth reminisce and share stories about Darin. What an incredible legacy. He was a presence and kind. Beth, and the family Darin cherished we send our sincere condolences and love. He will be greatly missed by those lives he touched.
Beth and family, please accept my sincere condolences. You and Darin have made the SIU School of Law very proud to call you folks our graduates, and Darin’s wit, enthusiasm, and generosity will certainly be missed. If you need anything, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Beth.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. My favorite memories of Darin are late night Denny’s runs in law school. He made a difference for so many.
My sincere sympathy to the Boggs family. Darin was such a kind, caring and devoted family man. His love and dedication to Beth was an example for all to admire. He will surely be missed by all.
My sincere sympathy to the Boggs family. Darin was such a kind, caring and devoted family man. His love and dedication to Beth was an example for all to admire. He will surely be missed.
Darin was one of the most kind , patient and light hearted people I have ever known . He touched so many people through the charities he and Beth were involved in. He also was the Greatest Uncle any kid could possibly ask for and was the Author of Spoiling’s Day a movement that would make any kid feel like they were the most special kid on earth. He will be missed and a trip to Saint Louis will never be the same.
Beth,
I am so sorry for your sudden loss of Darin. There are simply no words that can express the terrible loss of such a fine person way too young. You both have always been so kind and generous to others. I hope you find that you can lean on many during these hard times. If there is anything I can do personally, please don’t hesitate to ask. I will always have very fond memories of the many golf tournaments and other events that I worked at and attended. I always had fun, either way. It was always a privilege and a pleasure. I treasure those experiences and think of you often. Praying for you! RIP, Darin. You are already missed by many.
Beth and family, it was an honor to know Darin. I was a big admirer of his good humor and all his charitable work. My deepest sympathies to you on his death. He will certainly be missed.
What a great person, gone way too soon. Darin’s quiet good humor, humility, and willingness to work for the benefit of others will be missed by so many people. I always looked forward to seeing him, and I’ll remember him fondly.
Beth, Nieces, Nephews & Parents,
Wow, how do you begin to describe Daren Boggs? He was the most quiet, humble man while giving, giving, doing, doing for EVERYONE in the world. What a wonderful man. What he and Beth did for the St. Louis community is amazing. They both would give their heart and soul to help someone. He was a husband that everyone admired. His devotion to Beth was so loving and unconditional.
Beth, your world is shattered. Please take time for yourself. You both are loved by many.
Beth, Nieces, Nephews & Parents,
Wow, how do you begin to describe Daren Boggs? He was the most quiet, humble man while giving, giving, doing, doing for EVERYONE in the world. What a wonderful man. What he and Beth did for the St. Louis community is amazing. They both would give their heart and soul to help someone. He was a husband that everyone admired. His devotion to Beth was so loving and unconditional.
Beth, your world is shattered. Please take time for yourself. You both are loved by many.
Beth – my deepest condolences to you. I feel very lucky to have been able to see Darin a few weeks ago and to see you both together. The connection between you and Darin was amazing.
Beth
What a shock. I remember Darrin as a quite, but masterful man who could always get the job done, whoever asked. Always had a smile, and a Hello, with a a firm handshake.
I was in the foursome when Darrin shot his first “hole in one” He had no Idea what just happened. When I told him, tradition sez, you buy a round of drinks at the clubhouse….he said that’s nor my ball!!!!!! A Great Guy . Sorry for your lost
My condolences to Beth and family. Darin was always so kind when I had the opportunity to work with him over the years. He will surely be missed by all who knew him. You will all be in my prayers!
My condolences to Beth and family. Darin was always so kind when I had the opportunity to work with him over the years. He will surely be missed by all who knew him. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers!
Sorry to learn of Darin’s passing. A fine person. A fine lawyer. His service to his community and those in need stood out. Beth and family take care.
Beth,
Greg and I are so saddened by Darin’s passing. He was such a great and caring person. May the memories you and Darin made give you some peace through this very difficult time. We are sending prayers to you and your family.
Jill Lauer
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Beth,
Our sincerest condolences to you. We are all shocked and saddened to hear of Darin’s passing. Some of our fondest memories are with you and Darin. So many smiles, laughs, and amazing times spent together. Darin genuinely touched so many lives and made a difference everywhere he went. Darin will live on forever in our hearts. Every time we think of him, it will put a smile on our face. There’s simply not enough words to express how much we admire the two of you. Please reach out to us if you need anything whether it’s today, tomorrow, or months down the road. We will be here for you. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Hugs and love to you our dear friend.
Beth: We were shocked to hear of Darin’s passing and are so sorry for your loss. Darin was such a kind, gentle person, always available to help those who needed help, never looking to draw attention to himself. We count him as a friend and will miss him terribly. May his memory live on in all of the charitable work he undertook.
Beth, I was so shocked to hear about Darin passing away! Darin always made sure we were taken care of at the golf tournaments Jill and I attended and had a heart of gold. He will be missed by so many. Hugs to you Beth!
Jerry and Lynne Hanten
What a great guy who always was so up. Our deepest sympathies to Beth and to all family members. He was such an easy going man. We sure had some good Pickleball games ! We always enjoyed your hospitality at the Cards and Blues games. You made Colin’s birthday special at the Grizzly gm back in July even though it was a rainout. All the work for your charities is truly admired. You will be missed by many and certainly by the Hanten family.
Beth,
My deepest sympathy for your loss. Darin will be missed by all who knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.
Those that spent a lot of time with Darin in the last thirty years would add that he was a champion tennis player and won the national mixed doubles championship at the 3.5 USTA level.
My fondest recollections of Darin are all of the ping pong matches. Beth would play tennis with her friends at Creve Coeur Racquet Club. Darin used to love to come watch Beth play with Debbie, Patty, Geri and Diane. I met him there admiring his wife’s tennis game. He was an accomplished ping pong player. I did get the best of him once, but only when I forced him to play with his off hand. He was the kindest and most gracious man.
My fondest memory of Darin really speaks to the kind of man that he was. He and Beth had Rams PSLs with us. When the Rams went to the Super Bowl in 1999, they were awarded tickets to the game in the raffle. Beth’s mom was set to have back surgery the Friday before the game. Rather than go to the game, they gave their tickets away so that they would be available to help Beth’s mom. Darin ended up staying with her for several weeks to help with her recovery. They did not sell their tickets, they literally gave them away to a friend so his son and he could go to the game. Darin did a lot of things that will never, ever be forgotten
I only met Darin once, but it made quite the impression on me. He asked for my help to celebrate his wife’s 40th birthday. When I asked him what she wanted, he insisted that she wanted William “The Refrigerator” Perry to dance the Super Bowl Shuffle at her party. He made it happen and, unfortunately, the Fridge forgot his teeth. Watching the Fridge down a double decker pizza at JJ Twigs with no teeth is one of my clearest, strangest and fondest memories.
Since tonight is Friday night, I have to imagine that Daryl Burt and Darin Boggs are in heaven playing a friendly doubles match against Terry Zinser and Gene Roedder.
If a life is judged by the good works and people it impacts, then Darin was one of the most successful people I ever met. No job was too big or too small for him to undertake, whether it was filling coolers during the golf tournaments, delivering food during the pandemic or putting new shoes on the feet of a needy child. He was a man of few words but his actions spoke volumes. He touched many and will be missed.
Beth,
I am shocked and saddened by Darin’s passing. My thoughts and prayers have been with you this past week. Darin was a super nice guy and friend. I will miss seeing him, and even more so when he’s not by your side. You two are the dynamic duo. I will miss his easy going way and his humor. And when it came to helping others, he was always eager to do it, without reservation. He was always hungry like the NAMWOLF.
Darin was the kind of person whose actions spoke so clearly of his heart. He was so kind and so supportive of people both who he knew and who he simply knew needed his help. He was a gift to the people who knew him. My memories of Darin that are the most profound are really simple moments. My wife and were Beth and Darin’s witnesses for their wedding, and the goofy time we had taking pictures with anything and anyone we encountered was the simplest of joys. Sitting up and rocking back over and over again on a hotel bed to amuse the kids in the room. Sweating through his shirt and a towel eating super hot wings from Franks for the Memories in Mundelein. Seeing the depth of care and attention that he provided Beth through their many years together in so many ways. Darin had such an extraordinarily young, bright and thoughtful soul. We’ll miss him dearly. I love CRs thought of him hanging out with Daryl and others – it’s such a warm and moving thing to picture. Beth, Frank and others that were so close and so dear to him, many heartfelt condolences.
I’ll never forget Uncle Darin holding Emily at three months old like she was a sack of potatoes! She giggled and gurgled at him and they were fast friends. Thomas knew he was the “T” in T. Darin and Nicholas would follow him anywhere- even as an adult. Darin delighted in his nieces and nephews and they will always love him unconditionally. The world will never be the same.
I will never forget Darin’s enthusiasm for spending time with you in law school. He gave me a trophy that the two of you won for the mixed doubles racquetball championships. He loved your boundless energy. Always remember that.
Use the strength your faith has given you. Knowing Darin is at peace with our Lord. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Paula Burt
My heart goes out to Beth, Frank, and the rest of the family. Darin was by far one of the most generous people I have ever met. In the last 30 years he has done more for my family children and grandchildren from giving us loads of sports tickets to fixing there tickets. Our grandson Tanner had the privilege of working with both Beth and Darin at the firm they made him want to be a lawyer. But mainly it taught Tanner to give to the homeless, and feed the hungry. Darin was a great person and will always be remembered as one. One funny thing I remember is as you all know Beth hates to lose right, so we played tennis 2 or 3 times a week back years ago. Beth always had to play with Daryl of course Darin got stuck with me. I would say out of 100 matches Darin and I might have won 5, and believe me Darin had to be on the top of his game to do that, but he was a great sport about it. Anyway all my love Beth and contact me or one of the boys if you need anything.
Beth, my heart goes out to you and your family. I am sure that Paula Burt is also heartbroken. She loved being a St. Louis mom to Darin and I know Daryl loved him as well. I hope he and Daryl find a suitable opponent for some doubles, as they patiently wait for you and Paula to join them.
Dear Beth, Mr. Boggs and to the family of Darin,
Darin was a kind and gracious man who thought of others before he thought of himself. I was so inspired by the compassion he showed to others and the way he never hesitated to dive right in to help. He was the “go to” man who could be counted on to do all the tasks that needed to be done but didn’t have a volunteer to do them. He will be missed by many but no more so than all of you. My prayers are with your family during this time of loss.
Darin had so much love for everyone, especially Beth. If there was something that needed to be done you could count on him to do it. I will never forget the fun long drives when we’d going somewhere always singing or asking what the movie is about. I will love and miss you so much. You will live forever in my memories. <3
Paula and I were deeply saddened by Darin’s untimely death. His kind, gentle ways were always present whether at trivia contests or as we crossed paths in the legal world. Darin did not look back in anger. Instead, he was that person who would always do “the next right thing.”
Paula and Mike Geigerman
He was the best son-in-law ever. A gift to the Clemens’ family.
The Mother-in-Law
Uncle Darin stayed as a strong, reliable pillar in not only my Aunt’s life, but everyone’s near them as well. Darin was a breath of fresh air amidst a tense room. He was the kind of person to bring you comfort in even the worst kind of situations. I have no idea how hard this must be for you Aunt Beth, but please know that the entire family has your back, and we’re willing to help you whenever you need. Wether that be a visit up to St.Louis or a call.
All my memories of Darin are with a smile on his face, either being kind and helpful or laughing at something Beth said. We saw each other mainly on the tennis courts, at golf tournaments and for non-profit work. Seemed like he never got frazzled about anything, including losing a tennis point (unlike his wife). Darin was just a delight to be around. He was Beth’s other half. I know he will be missed by so many, but great memories will be with all of us.
Dear Beth, Jp and I are sincerely saddened by the passing of Darin. We are praying for you to find some comfort along the way of mourning, and for the family. We are all blessed to have known Darin, and he will be greatly missed. All our love to you, April.
Beth, my deepest condolences in this time of loss. Darin was a wonderful, compassionate and giving man. He will be greatly missed.
I helped with the golf tournament where Darin had his only hole in one. Charlie failed to mention that he won $10,000 on the shot. He donated the money to charity.
Beth and family, I’m so sorry for your loss. Darin was such a sweet man and will be missed greatly!
I taught Darin in law school and had the pleasure of witnessing his passion for three things, U of I, SIU and Beth. Ping Pong was a close 4th. SIU has been the beneficiary of his ongoing generosity and the community will miss him.
Darin Boggs was one of the kindest people I have ever had the pleasure of being around. He and Beth took it upon themselves to make sure that everyone at the Gateway Grizzlies games had an amazing time. Their generosity was unmatched and inspirational to me.
He was one of my favorite people to talk with during the game because no matter how stressed or busy I was he would always make me laugh. He was a great person that will be missed by many. Thank you Darin for everything you did. Rest in Peace.
Darin was a great guy. He was a quiet doer with a great laugh. We will all miss him.
Boggsville will never be the same without their sheriff.
Whether it was going to sporting events, traveling to other states, running to the grocery store or working at the office with him I will cheerish the memories and stories I have with Darin. Growing up Darin and Beth were always there for my siblings and I in any way that we needed. As my mom always says “everyone deserves an aunt Beth and uncle Darin”.
My deepest condolences. I knew Darin since law school and had the privilege to work with him over the last 20 years. He was just such a good person who was always willing to lend a helping hand. He truly cared about helping others. We both shared a love for the Fighting Illini and I know he would be smiling for those recent Illini football wins. He will be greatly missed and my thoughts and prayers are with his family.
I am incredibly honored that I got to call Darin a “friend”. He was an amazing soul – compassionate, caring, loving and such a great person. My wife and I are completely devastated by this loss – not only for us personally – but for the number of people who Darrin directly impacted in a positive way along with Beth – year in and year out. Their steadfast belief in philanthropy and giving back or just the simple gesture of good will was incredible and I’ve never met a better couple at making people smile though tough times. Love you Beth — Rebecca and I will always be here and will hold a very special place in our heart for Darin. He truly was a gentle soul taken way too soon.
I’ve known Beth and Darin for a little over 10 years and in that time I built a relationship with Darin and considered him a friend. Darin always greeted me with a smile and we always chatted about sports. I had such a respect for Darin with all his generosity and his charitable endeavors, he seemed like he was always working on something. Im going to be sad every time I pull up to Beth’s house to work on a construction project and Darrin isn’t going to be walking down the driveway to greet me. It was such a privilege to know him and he will be greatly missed.
Darin and I were friends for more than 30 years. He was fun to be around. He loved Beth with all of his heart and enjoyed the fast “pace of play” of their lives. He loved his father, Frank and tried to emulate him. He loved the community and being part of making others lives better. He will be missed.
Darin was the ultimate doer of good works. Know of our friends, Darin and Beth, through tennis, their amazing and fun golf events, and working on Trivia Night for Dwight Davis. (And of course they won the Trivia event every year!) I sincerely believe Darin to be the most selfless individual I have ever known. He and Beth are such a great team and have done so much for their friends, for their family and the entire St. Louis community. You will truly be missed. Your friends will be there for Beth and support her in this time of grief and loss. We’ll remember your smile and incredible good nature.
Dear Beth,
Sorry to take this long to express my condolences to you. Words, I know, are never enough. Also, I was so stunned when I first heard it that I demanded that Wendy and Sam provide sources that could be trusted. I guess I also didn’t want it to be true. Darin was one of the nicest, considerate and witty guys I have known. He was a good, decent guy, the highest compliment one can earn. And I was blessed to know him.
Darin and Beth were inseparable. Their mutual respect and love they had for each other was obvious to all. Darin had the gift of projecting his heart through his eyes- his warmth came through in all that he did. When Beth wasn’t with Darin, she was talking about Darin. The stories she shared about Darin brought a smile to Beth as she recounted their adventures and to all those around her. We have worked with Beth for years and always knew that we had a “package deal” in Darin and Beth. He would enthusiastically pinch hit for her if she was unavailable and we always knew we were in great hands. We appreciate both Beth and Darin- Darin especially for making Beth so happy. He will truly be missed.
Darin kept a plaque on his desk that reads:
“Let us endeavor so to live that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry.”
Mark Twain
It has taken me several days to attempt to put into words how I feel. I have so many memories that involve Darin from casino nights to golf tournaments to not really your birthday dinners to poorly manned grills at The Melting Pot and the list goes on. I will always agree with Darin, no one cares about the middle of the meal, you come for the bread and the dessert.
In losing Darin, I feel like I lost a second dad, but the world lost so much more. Darin filled a special role for me when my own dad passed away unexpectedly.
Darin and Beth are truly two of the most kind and humble people I have ever met. Darin was always willing to complete whatever task Beth asked of him, even if it meant not seeing a sporting event that he cared about far more than most people that we were with. Trips to the team store after a Blues goal will never be the same. Speaking of the Blues game, how could we forget about hiding sticks in the ceiling to play hockey at the next game with the young Hanten boys.
Darin’s generosity had no boundaries. I have assisted with many projects including shoe distributions, food distributions and toy distributions that Darin and Beth always went above and beyond on.
I know that Darin’s love for his family ran deep, including his sister-in-law, Mary Clemens, and brother-in-law, Chris Lunn, that have passed on. I will continue to keep all of Darin’s family in my prayers.
Easter Darin, may you rest in peace. Please continue to look over all of us.
Darin has been my friend for the last 20 years. He was a man of infinite patience and kindness. I never saw him in a bad mood and always found him to be willing to do whatever any situation required of him. Together with Beth they were the most generous couple I have ever known. In this time of sorrow I wish all his family and friends the gift of fond memories of the man I called my friend.
Beth, I am sorry for your loss. We will keep you in our prayers!
Dear Beth,
I am so terribly saddened to learn of the death of Darin. I offer my most heartfelt and sincere condolences and sympathy to you and your entire family. Darin was a fine fellow, with a quick wit, inquiring mind, and a kind and gentle spirit. He will be missed by all those who knew him. Darin’s goodwill and charitable nature left a positive mark on those around him and his city. May Darin Rest in Peace and may God grant peace and grace to you and your whole family. With kindest personal regards, I remain, your pal, Wally Bley
Dear Beth —
Barbara and I were totally shocked and saddened to hear about Darin’s passing. He was so helpful with our cries for help with our SVDP clients issues. He will be difficult to replace and the world needs more human beings like him. I enjoyed meeting him for our StL Ram tickets and we had a lot of fun at the Boggs golf tournament. Thank you Beth, for sharing Darin with all of us. We will always be there for you.
Deepest condolences, Beth. Darin was such a selfless human, who made such an impact on the community. He will be missed.
Beth;
We were so shocked and saddened at Darin’s passing. Darin was a great friend. I recall memorable times we had together such as pulling a giant Igloo cooler thru Times Square and sitting at the Bears game in a pouring rain storm. Little did I know that when we played golf a few weeks ago it would be the last time I would see him. Darin always had a kind word and was always quick to help others in need. We will miss him. God bless you and your family.
Larry & Deb
My daughter was in a car accident that left her in a wheel chair. Darin had a crew over to her house to add a ramp to the front and retrofit whatever could be changed to make her more comfortable. He was a very generous and considerate man.
My husband was a police officer in Ferguson during the stressful Michael Brown situation. My family was being harassed and my house was unsafe. Darin and Beth let us stay in their rental properties anonymously and for free so that I had peace of mind. At the same time, they were stocking the food pantries for the residents of the Ferguson community.
Beth,
My heart breaks for you and your family! Darin was a top notch man, from his legal knowledge to his time and effort with giving back to his community. Darin will be greatly missed!
Beth, Jen and I send our love. Darin was a wonderful man and he will be sorely missed. We will plan to attend the celebration of life at Dave and Buster’s.
I’m still just trying to process the loss of Darin. Emerson and I would be very different people had we not crossed paths all those years ago. Darin and Beth have been apart of my life for many many years. It was a friendship that started over two very special cats named puck and Pedro. It has since grown into family. Beth and Darin have always watched out for Emerson and I and made sure we were always ok. He was our Easter Darin. He was Emerson’s favorite thing to sing about. The kind of people beth and Darin are don’t really exist! We were all very fortunate that we could watch the kindness and generosity they share w the world. To think boggsville started because Beth and Darin herd me talking about looking for a place to live. Beth said just stop looking we’ll buy you a house to live in. Not only did they buy one house for me, when they found out I was having Emerson they said your going to need a bigger house. All that they have going on in their world and they were worried about me. Im so grateful I got to be in Darin’s world. I will forever be grateful my daughter has learned to make a difference in the world because of the example Beth and Darin set. Emerson prays for you every night sir. I will never let her forget her Darin boggs. Until we meet again my friend.
Beth, I am so sorry for your loss. You and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers. My deepest sympathies, Jessica
Kathy Kaiser
Beth,
I’m so very sorry.
I knew Beth and Darin long before I met them. Corry always came home and talked about how nice they were and told the stories of the wonderful things they were always doing for people. When I did met them I found them to be a very unique couple. They were always about helping and doing for others. As I got to know them better they are a very loving and caring couple. They work every holiday. I ask Beth are you going to take off for this holiday and she replied no we work all the time so we can do everything we do for everyone.
They are so good to Corry, Casey and Emerson. I will remember Darin being a warm, gentle, caring young man but also I saw a happy kid in him. When it was time for the chocolate chips to come, he would light up and announce the chocolate chips were here and starting eating them. The night Corry told us he passed, Emerson was spending the night with me as she was laying there falling asleep she ask is Darin
Boggs really gone, I said yes, she ask he’s never coming back I said no. She fell asleep crying. When she woke up she ask me remember what mommy told us last night, I said yes she ask is it still the truth I answered yes she replied I have an Angel watching me then.
I don’t know who was responsible for assigning incoming first year law students to their dorm rooms in 1987 at Southern Illinois University School of Law. I wish I did. Because I owe that person a debt of gratitude. That person changed my life. He or she assigned Darin to the room next to me.
Darin was quiet and affable but I gradually came to know him. We had many things in common. We were both sports fanatics, particularly anything involving St. Louis teams, especially the Cardinals. He was University of Illinois alum and loved all things Illini. While I myself attended a small liberal arts college rather than the big State U, I always loved Illiini sports. As some of you may recall the Cardinals and the Illini were both quite good at the time and were a pleasant distraction from studies for both of us. We often enjoyed watching a game over a deep dish Quatro’s pizza which was another common love of ours.
Time marched on. Darin married a mutual friend from law school named Beth Clemens. She was one of if not the brightest student in the school and had a sense of humor as sharp as her wit. She was fun to be around. Still is. I married my longtime girlfriend Cindi from back home, as I always knew I would since I met her, at least if she would have me. Darin was best man at our wedding. Darin and Beth eventually worked together at the law firm Beth founded and had great professional success in St. Louis. Cindi and I opted for a more quiet existence in a small town near where we grew up and we raised our two adopted children here and still call it home.
Darin and I didn’t see each other often in the first decade or so after law school, but a chance meeting of our wives at a gas station led to the four of us rekindling the friendship and we got together pretty regularly after that. Darin and Beth never had kids of their own, but were blessed with a large brood of nieces and nephews and considered and treated our two children like family as well. They loved to spoil all of them at a variety of places from Baseball games, to Amusement Parks to lavish dinners or Arcades. Often it looked like Beth and Darin were enjoying it more that the kids. Probably because they were.
I was never expecting the phone call that I received on a sunny quiet morning that inexplicably my best friend was gone, and his wife Beth was grief stricken, for he was her best friend as well. 57 years on this earth isn’t a short time but it isn’t long either. Darin had a lot more living to do. Life isn’t fair in that way and if I didn’t already know that I know it now. If you have read all of the comments on this site you know how kind a person Darin was. While I am sure he had an occasion to be angry or sad or distressed I never saw it. I don’t really want life lessons from loss. I would much prefer that Darin were still here. But if lessons are what we are left with then the lesson is be kind. I have seen firsthand very often what the kindness of Darin and Beth have meant to others. We can all be a little kinder and gentler to each other. Life is short. Shorter than we would like.
Darin and I were so much alike we left a lot unspoken. I think he knew how much he meant to me, but I now regret that I never told him. If you have a good friend that means a lot to you, let them know and cherish your time together. Life is shorter than we would like.
My family has season tickets in section 168. I can tell you that there was not a nicer or more generous person. He was almost nice enough to make up for his wife wearing a Cubs jersey to every game.
Every fall Darin would sponsor a high stakes popcorn ball decorating contest for all his nieces and nephews. I hope that tradition continues in his honor.
Those of us who really knew Darin knew that he gave everyone a nickname. He called his father “The Frankster” and tried every day to be just like him. He called Beth “The Goose” and tried to make sure that the golden eggs got to those who needed them. He called Beth’s brother and himself “Mule Boys”. He always believed that they were working in service to their families and to the community as a whole. He was always doing the heavy lifting with a smile on this face.
My friend Darin Boggs was one of the kindest, most thoughtful, intuitive, modest, and generous people I have ever met. As Beth’s devoted husband, he was also extremely patient.
One time, Beth and I were preparing for a mock direct and cross examination of a damages expert at a lawyers’ conference. The fact pattern: an employee of a store wanted to play a practical joke on another employee and covered the only toilet seat with crazy glue. But a customer got to it first, got stuck, and lost a testicle as a result. Just before I went on, I was still struggling to find a cross-exam question for the plaintiff’s lost income expert that would get a bigger laugh from the audience than whatever Beth got during her direct. There was Darin to the rescue with the question: “Couldn’t the plaintiff get employment as a spokesperson?” And the prop: a Uniball pen…
Genius. And generous.
Another time the three of us were among those presenting to the legal staff of a Fortune 500 company. For some reason, Darin and I dressed up as cheerleaders while Beth spoke. Before Darin and I ran on stage, pom poms and all, Darin gave me a pep talk: “Listen, this only works if we go totally all out. Like you’re a real cheerleader.” I didn’t and Darin was right.
Intuitive. And thoughtful.
When I played in one of the Boggs’ charity golf outings, I got to play with Darin and his Dad, Frank. It was so much fun. Darin and Frank were so kind to me. At the day’s end, I thanked Darin for the wonderful time I had had playing with father and son. Darin hugged me back and told me he was lucky to have Frank for a father. I have to agree.
Modest. And appreciative.
And then there was Darin’s candid observation about the location of my law firm’s office: “Let me see, you get off of I-75 at Exit 69 which is Big Beaver Road…”
Or there was Darin’s suggestion that, instead of using my maiden name (Bush) in the law firm’s name, I should have combined it with my Husband’s name: Winterbush.
I hope that somewhere Darin is reading this totally inappropriate note of condolence and laughing out loud. I miss that laugh.
Darin was one of the kindest individuals I’ve ever met. Soft spoken and quiet, he went above and beyond to make sure others were taken care of. He always made time for family, even if he didn’t have it.
I remember he joined me at a Jazz Concert at SIUE one year to watch my twins perform. He was getting phone calls during the concert – which I knew he should’ve taken but didn’t as he knew how much it meant to both the boys and I that he was there in the crowd.
Many times, he contacted the boys to join him and Beth at a sporting event which always came with food!!
The boys were thrilled to be a part of his life.
I also remember he took a whole day out of his life to travel several hours to sit with my husband and family during a surgery of mine, only to see me for a few seconds afterwards, and then he turned around and drove back home.
His love and generosity will never be forgotten.
Time spent with you Darin was much too short.
Love you and miss you, Darin.
Beth – we’re always here for you. Thoughts and prayers for you during this difficult time.
We were very saddened to hear of Darin’s passing. Unfortunately we didn’t meet him until this year, but his overflowing acts of kindness made us feel like he’d known us for forever! When he gave us the Cardinals field access passes earlier this summer, that was a moment that I know we will never forget. He stated that he had already done that before and he wanted to share with someone else. Besides Grizzly games, we were also blessed to enjoy section 168 at Busch Stadium on occasion. If one word could best describe Darin in the short time that we knew him, it would be selfless. Beth, I cannot imagine what you are going through having lost your best friend, your soul-mate. You continue to stay in our thoughts.
I lived in Boggsville for 5 years. During that time, Darin taught my kids to drive. He made time to help my son with whatever he needed in transitioning to college. He was a mentor and friend to my entire family. He did not have a dog, but loved them. He came and walked our dog every day. He was the best and will be missed.
Darin was kind, clever, and so so funny. He will be so dearly missed.
We have only know Beth and Darin for about 3 years but WOW it is such a great friendship. Barry loved talking sports with Darin and thought of him like the brother he never had. Our personalities are similar with Barry and Darin being more quiet but always wanting to help their wives. We loved going to Cardinal, Grizzly and Blues games and watching them make so many kids have the best time ever by giving them items and experiences they will never forget! One thing we have learned from Darin and Beth is that helping others makes your life better. Even though we are not able to help as many people as they have we have learned that helping 1 person makes the world a better place. We loved going out to eat with them and Darin taught us that the rolls and the gravy are essential to our meals. Darin has been taken from the this earth way too soon and we will never understand why – where ever you are Darin please watch over all of us.
I’ve been trying to think of the right words to put here. I’ve been reading other posts for inspiration. I knew Darin was an amazing individual, but reading the other comments on this page here really cemented that thought. He truly was one of the best people I’d ever met in my life. My wife and I had some amazing times with Beth, Darin, and the family that will always be cherished. I know one day it will hit me that he’s gone; it still hasn’t hit me yet. My wife and I will miss him dearly.
I wish that I kept up more with Beth and Darin over the years. I was one of their professors in law school. Darin had shared with me that he was going to commit himself to Beth’s career because she seemed to love the law… I know that Beth’s love for the law was secondary to her love for Darin and that she greatly appreciated his devotion to her. I hope that she finds comfort in all of the good that they have done for others.
We were so saddened to hear about Darin’s passing. He was a kind and gentle individual always concerned about the well-being of others around him. Churchill said ” We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.” Darin and Beth were a wonderful force for charity in our area and gave so much of their time and resources to help others. Most of us did not know the extent of their philanthropy throughout the community. Their golf tournaments were Epic! Hosting 3 charity tournaments a year was a tremendous amount of work, but they were so much fun! They came up with the wackiest games to make the day so enjoyable for all. Walking down the path at The Orchards Golf Club and rounding the corner to see Darin always greeting and thanking golfers is a memory of him I will always treasure. His presence will be greatly missed, but his affect on us all is ongoing.
I worked with Darin in giving away food in the community for the last three years. He had an enduring presence, always ready to help. He was a credit to his firm and the legal community, even if it was one meal and one mask at a time.
The world lost a precious person! Darin was always kind, happy and will be missed. It was a privilege to know him. Sorry for the late message, just was told today. RIP
Darin was one of the nicest people I have ever met. I had the occasion several times to meet with his father at firm golf tournaments and it was easy to see why Darin turned out the way he did. He definitely carried on his father’s demeanor and great disposition. That is more than a father could ever hope for, to pass down some of his good traits to his son. I don’t have words to express how much Darin will be missed. Until we meet again my friend. My sympathies to Beth, Frank, all the nieces and nephews and the countless other friends and relatives.
Beth I am so sorry to hear about you and your family’s loss of Darin. He was a quiet guy, but his power spoke so loudly when it came to helping and serving those in need. Thanks for sharing him with us.
Darin’s celebration of life is December 11 at 8:30 am at Dave & Busters. We won’t be able to recreate his favorite drink as they do not have Mountain Dew, but sneak one in and add some Tequila in his honor.
Darin Boggs has been a beacon of light in all of our lives. He had a way of expressing selflessness in a manor that was so non-cholent, it was barely noticeable. That is how I will always remember him. The man that was always there for everyone without question, including his amazing wife, Beth. The love they shared for each other was admirable, unstoppable and unquestioned.
I shared stories of Darin with my children tonight….of his giving spirit…of his passion and love and their response was that God has great plans for him and he was to do amazing things in heaven. He will be missed. He is loved. He is cherished. May he rest in peace and may he watch over and be with Beth and the rest of his family forever.
I just heard the devastating news of Darin’s passing. He was so kind and mellow. I always thought he was the perfect balance to Beth’s intensity. She is blessed with unbelievable drive and was also blessed with 35 years of his calming presence.
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Darin. He was a man who enjoyed the finer things in life, a good steak, a cold beverage, fine music, numerous sporting events, bad dancing, terrible golfing, being stumped at trivia. He called Beth “Scrubbing Bubbles.” She worked hard so that he did not have to. He always had a smile on his face and a bounce in his step.
My favorite thing about Darin was his sense of humor. He described his role as being the activities directed on the Love Boat. He always said that he was not much of a thinker or a worker, but he sure as hell could make you smile!!
I knew Darin because and Beth played tennis with my parents. He was always happy and positive and interacted with my parents as if they were his own. He was very generous and also very receptive to learning new things. My parents have not posted as they are unable to put words to their grief. It is as if they lost their own son. He was such a kind man.
I can not imagine the level of pain that Beth is feeling. I have known them for twenty years. They had the same passions: they loved playing tennis and later pickle ball; they loved golfing together, they loved basketball, baseball, football, hockey, family, friends, JJ Twig’s, competition, community work, and so much more. He was taken far too soon. I hope Beth can find peace.