Philip John Bovberg—“John” to family and friends, and “Mr. B” to countless students and fellow educators—passed away at UCLA Medical Center on Monday, December 16. He was 65 years old, given six months of additional life thanks to the generosity of a heart donor. Everyone always said John had an enormous heart, but in fact he had two hearts!
Born in Pasadena, California, on March 6, 1948, John was the second son, after brother Briane, of the late Robert and Dorothy Bovberg. He would be followed by two younger brothers, Kevin and Craig. He was raised in Monrovia, Rancho Cordova, Westminster, and Anaheim, attending Bolsa Grande and La Quinta high schools.
Eventually John settled in Irvine, California, to raise his family. The notion of “family” was paramount to John, and he is widely considered the backbone, or even the bright central star, of his extended family. He is survived by his wife Terri, his son Jason and his daughter Melissa, and his granddaughters Harper, Sophie, and Sadie, and grandson Carson John. He is also beloved by his nieces and nephews Annette and Laura, Jenny, Aaron and Andrea, Hanna and Emma, and his daughter-in-law Barbara. They all remember him as exceedingly generous, unfailingly supportive, and always full of good cheer. His exuberant personality also attracted hundreds of friends. John’s ability to establish deep, lasting friendships was unparalleled.
After graduating from La Quinta High School in 1966, he moved on to Golden West College and then California State University Fullerton to pursue his Bachelor’s degree. It was there where he discovered his life’s pursuit in education, earning his teaching credentials, and eventually working his way to Fountain Valley High School. His career there spanned 35 years, and his influence was immediately powerful. Perhaps the greatest phase of his storied career was the period of 1975 to 1985, when he team-taught US History with Bill Lacey, becoming a legendary force in local education, thanks to the two educators’ dynamic methods of creative, interactive learning. The two teachers developed long-standing curriculum that emphasized historical re-enactments, role-playing, and simulations. As one of thousands of former students said, “Mr B. did more than teach history, he changed history. He was a man of vision who gave you the opportunity to place yourself in the past, and consider the options and decisions that [historical figures faced]. His lessons were captivating, filled with adventure, passion, and wisdom.”
John immersed himself in multiple roles at Fountain Valley High School, including junior and senior class advisor, prom coordinator, and on-campus Coastline Community College site administrator. For several years, he served as Mentor Teacher alongside Bill Lacey, helping other teachers become effective educators. In one of his more impactful roles, he served as student teacher coordinator for over twenty years, ushering wave after wave of influential teachers into the workforce. He was awarded local and state Teacher of the Year honors throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s before retiring from high school education in 2006. During and following that illustrious career, he was also an author, with Bill Lacey, of a dozen INTERACT publications, focusing on interactive history curriculum. Late in his career, he earned his Masters degree, and enjoyed a professorship at Chapman College. Throughout his years in education, and into retirement, he also teamed with Bill Lacey to present more than 200 workshop presentations to college classes, at teacher conferences, and at school districts about active learning strategies.
Reflecting on John’s career, a colleague said, “I cannot overstate the positive impact that John Bovberg had on the culture, climate, and professionalism of Fountain Valley High School. His teaching style emphasized student engagement, critical thinking, application to real-world problems, personalization, and multi-sensory involvement. His enthusiasm for students and for the profession of teaching was limitless.”
John’s impact on the thousands of students he taught, on the hundreds who became teachers because of John, and on the thousands of students those teachers will influence, is impressive and provides a little bit of comfort, knowing that his caring spirit and enthusiasm will endure. He was playful, popular, and proud. He lived his life with gusto, full of laughter, and he loved everyone. He will be dearly missed.
Thank you Mr. Bovberg for making history fun and memorable back in 1985! The Bovberg and Lacey team are the few teachers who I remember and who made an impact. I am going to find the books you wrote so I can use them to teach my own kids.
May God bring strength and peace to the Bovberg family!
Such a wonderful teacher, many good memories
Mr. B was my history teacher in 1978-1979. I remember the privilege of being in his class and how he and Mr. Lacey shared their love of history. Only great memories from these two men. Thank you for being such a great influence in so many lives. RIP
Mr. B was a man with a kind, gentle spirit who most certainly had a love for educating. He was by far the most influential teacher I had while attending FVHS. The impact he has had on so many lives over the years will be his legacy. He was a wonderful man- so many will miss.
Mr. B was a great teacher and wonderful man. I loved movie night for extra credit. He touched many lives and will be missed.
RIP
Mr. B and Mr. Lacey made learning fun and interesting. They were also very involved with their students and what they did at FVHS. I remember during the 79′ football season, when we played Edison at the Big ‘A’. I was on Drill Team and we did our halftime show with Edison. It was amazing and the following Monday in history class, that is all Mr. B talked about. Both men left a lasting impression on my life and in my heart. Prayers go out to Mr. Bovberg’s family. He will be missed!
in the mid 80’s I found myself in a sea of hormones, confusion, and lack of interest, otherwise known as High School. I couldn’t find the time to do homework or pay attention until I stepped into Mr. Bovberg and Mr. Lacey’s combo history class and they were there to fill my brain with our American History. I won’t lie I stilled struggled and tried not to yawn at some of the curriculum… BUT knowing that those two men got up everyday to teach us hooligans in such a fun and interactive away is something I have carried with me nearly 25 years later. I am a proud mama of a 3rd grader and I teach Mini Classes to the students about art and cooking I am forever changed by the folks that taught at FVHS and remember Mr B fondly! May he rest in peace.. (jennifer nettles)
Mr. B was one in a million. Was my Sophomore History teacher, and I got to play Rasputin in one of our re-inactments. I remember him telling me I was a little “over the top”. Had wonderful chats with him after graduation when he was on-site at FVHS working for Coastline. Always a smile and a kind word. Loved Bill as much. Such a loss to our lives and education. RIP.
In 1977 I was so privileged to take American History with Mr. Bovberg and Mr. Lacey. They were a wonderful team and really made history come alive! Mr. Bovberg influenced thousands of students as a positive force . Condolences to Mr. Bovberg’s family and friends, what a terrible loss.
Wow, how sad. I was in Mr. Lacey’s class officially, but both taught us so much! I was one of their “Players” in 84-85 and I have the best memories of the Stock Market Crash of 1929, playing Mary Todd Lincoln, putting George Washington on trial for treason, and marching through the halls as a Salvation Army-type group from the 1920’s with Corey Fournet (spelling?) playing his trumpet. Their teaching sticks with you, and their love for history, and us, made my Junior year so much more memorable. Thank you Mr. B for being a part of my life. You and Mr. L will be sorely missed.
Dayna (Bivens) Budde
Class of 1986
Mr. B is my all time favorite teacher. My father died while I was taking his history class, and I’ll always remember the kindness he extended to me. It meant so much to me then, and still does today.
John was one of the nicest people I have known. He possessed so many admirable qualities and I will miss his sweet smiling face. My condolences to Terri, Jason, Missy, and the extended Bovberg family.
Mr. B was the best teacher at FVHS. My oldest sister Denise had him first then became a student aide in his class. My parents adored him and made sure that the other 5 of us siblings take his history class. He will be greatly missed.
Class of ’77
What a beautiful tribute. Mr. B was the most beloved teacher in the history of FVHS. He was my teacher in 1987-1988 and it was a wonderful experience I will never forget. One of the friends I still keep in touch with became a high school teacher because of his influence. RIP Mr. B. Thanks for the memories.
Mr. B was by far the best teacher I had at FVHS. The love of history he and Mr. L instilled in me flamed a passion that has lasted throughout the years. I had his class in 77/78 and then went to NYC summer of ’78. I “dragged” my family to Ellis Island and I hope I shared and passed on some of the passion for our history that he allowed me to enjoy throughout a lifetime. Rest in peace Mr. Bovberg and may your family take comfort in knowing what an inspiration you were to so many.
Mr. B. I had the pleasure of being in your class my sophomore year. I remember always looking forward to it. You made history more real and fun by making it come to life. I am sorry more generations will not get to experience your humor, joy and passion for teaching. God rest your dear soul.
Fondest regards,
Saundra
Mr. B was the most influential teacher of my youth. I was lucky enough to have him as my History teacher in a time of my life when I was making some ‘not so great’ choices. Where most teachers just ignored the signs, Mr. B took the time to pull me aside and have his ‘talks’ with me…gently nudging me back in the right direction. After H.S. I came back as a student teacher for his class for a semester and learned so much from him that I use on a daily basis is the business world. To this day, when difficult choices are presented, I still find myself asking ‘What would Mr. B do?”. He was an amazing man…he will be missed.
I was in the class of 1977. Mr. B. was one of my most favorite and influential teachers. He is one of the reasons I pursued a career in public education. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Thank you for sharing him with us all these years. Our loss is heaven’s gain.
All love and prayers go out to the Bovberg family! Mr. Bovberg taught a passport to india class for summer school! i loved every second of it! he also took us to my first experience of my lifetime of indain food! he arranged to take us to this resturant in riverside! it was so fun he made my school years fun! i was also in Bovberg and laceys
history class! made history come alive for me! You will be missed!
Dear Jason,
First let me say, I am so sorry for your loss and I am deeply saddened to hear of John’s passing. Please give my LOVE to Terri, Missy and the whole Bovberg family.
My name is Jill Leech and I attended FVHS and graduated in 1983. I didn’t have the privilege of having John as a teacher my Junior year, but I had heard so much about this dynamic duo that when I decided to become a teacher I went to observe with the famous Bovberg and Lacey team. I student taught with them in the Fall of 1989 and it changed my life. The following is a tribute I posted on FaceBook this week:
My heart is broken this week with the news that my teaching mentor and good friend, John Bovberg, passed away on Monday Dec 16th. John Bovberg was larger than life. He was one of the most positive people I have ever met. He had a wonderful sense of humor and his enthusiasm was contagious. He absolutely LOVED teaching and he loved working with young people. He was one of those very rare teachers that made learning fun and made students feel that they belonged in his classroom and that they had something to contribute that was worthwhile, that they could achieve anything. Perhaps the greatest gift he gave his students was that they felt important and that they mattered. There was just a feeling in his classroom that I can’t explain. It was a place of belonging, a place of goodness and a place of JOY. And that is why over the years students would continually come back to FVHS to visit him…it felt like home.
He was one of the most creative people I have ever known and that creativity inspires me to this day. He also inspired so many thousands of young people to learn about and appreciate United States History through re-enacting simulations. History came to life and students could really understand the past because they experienced it in his classroom. Anyone that had the privilege of knowing John (Mr. B as he was affectionately known) experienced his capacity to be able to do it all. He not only was an outstanding teacher, but he volunteered to be the advisor for clubs on campus and even opened his classroom before and after school for students that needed extra help. In his teaching career, he also touched the future of teaching by mentoring colleagues and so many young student teachers like myself. He loved his family very much. He spoke often of his beautiful wife Terri , his son Jason , daughter Missy and his wonderful grandchildren that gave him so much joy.
I will be forever grateful to this Great man for inspiring me to be a better teacher and person. I wasn’t fortunate enough in high school to have John as a teacher, but I had heard enough about him and Bill Lacey to know that I wanted to student teach with them and to learn from the Best of the Best. After meeting John and observing with him my first semester, I remember thinking…when I grow up, I want to be just like him.
I will miss you John, but your light will continue to shine in this world for a long time. I know you are shining even brighter in Heaven.
“When I hear, I forget…When I see, I remember… When I DO, I understand”- Chinese proverb from Bovberg and Lacey and their motto for teaching
My friend, John, you are making history in heaven. What a legacy you have left. Thanks for being such a joy to work with. Thanks for always brightening those boring department coordinators meetings. Thanks for marrying such a wonderful person. You are and will always be loved by many .
Thank you John for being an amazing master teacher. You will continue to impact children through my teaching and through the lives of the teachers I mentor. You made a difference that is impossible to calculate. Blessings to you Terri and your family. John told me he married you on Thanksgiving because he was so thankful for you. We are all thankful for him!
John will be deeply missed by all. He was a great teacher for my sisters and myself. RIP
The best teachers I have ever had have been engaging. Mr. Bovberg was one of the best at this. He immersed you in history, he was so into teaching that it made you want to learn. His class was not just reading out of a book and taking tests, it taught you about history by bringing it to life. I played the part of Mary Todd Lincoln wearing a dress I made for Halloween, I remember standing in the hallway waiting to go in the class to play my part. I brought my mom’s Marie Callendar’s pie tins in for the soup kitchen, I stood in front of a giant stock pot serving soup to the rest of my class. To this day when I am processing merchant disputes for “unauthorized” transactions when people order “free” samples I remember him teaching us, “There is no such thing as a free lunch.” I told my sister (Charlissa Wintz) about his passing and she shared with me that he is the reason she is now a teacher. Charlissa earned her BS in History last year and earned her Masters in teaching from Cal State Fullerton this month. She remembers crawling through WWI trenches in his class and says she emulates his style as a teacher. I had his class in 92/93 and my sister was there in 06/07, his passion for teaching was always present. Even now I am fighting back the tears as I share my memories, we will miss you Mr. Bovberg.
Mr. Bovberg left his mark on many students and will never be forgotten. My condolences to his family.
Mr. B was one of the few reasons I was eager to come to school, never ceasing to amaze me with his kindness and challenges to urge us to be historical and critical thinkers. He is one of my fondest memories and had a major impact on my decision to pursue a degree in history and later become a teacher. I’m sorry that I never got to tell him that…I send his family the best and I hope he always felt the admiration of his students. Thanks for this article.
I was a student of Fountain Valley High School (class of 1984). I was one of the fortunate students to have “experience” the Bovberg & Lacey class. The other day when I saw the sad news posted on Facebook, this was my reply, “So very sad He was a very special teacher, so much fun and made such an impact on each and every student! I remember his class with Mr. Lacey well! He had a passion for teaching and it showed. He’ll be missed.”
Then later upon reading countless more posts by many more saddened former students, I posted this, “What a fitting tribute to Mr. B. All these fond memories from so many….and from many of us 30-years after experiencing his class!” Saying prayers for you and your family.
Mr. B was my zero period history teacher in 2001. I hate history yet I loved his class. He was so animated, funny, caring, inspiring, respected, and so much more. I remember any time the lights went out for history movie he sat in front of the room with a flash light checking for sleepers. He would say we could miss something important…for someone who is not a history person or a morning person for that matter, it was difficult to stay awake at 6:30 am unless he was standing up front telling stories, making us act something out, or drawing pictures all over the board. As a middle school teacher myself, I now know how difficult it is to keep a room full of teens engaged, but he always keep us busy and always helped his students in any way possible. I appreciate his time, effort, and love for education. He was truly a role model in education and I know many students, as well as many teachers, looked up to him respected him for many year. My thoughts and prayers to the Bovberg family, he was a true educational legend and he will be missed.
To the Bovberg family, my deepest sympathy for your loss. John was a wonderful teacher, loyal friend, and a joy to work with. He could always light up a room with his wonderful smile and positive attitude. It was an honor to know and work with John. He touched so many lives and he will be so missed by all who worked with him and the students he inspired.
I was blessed to experience the Bovberg/Lacey team in 1986. They changed the way I felt about education and learning. They also inspired me to go into teaching… Which I have been doing now for the past 20 years. I also had the pleasure of working side by side with Mr. B on the prom committee and class advisory for two years. Mr. B you were an amazing man and left an incredible legacy. Thank you for all that you did! You will never be forgotten.
Class of 75…he always remembered my name…even years later. Wonderful, kind man/teacher.
Mr B was the best history teacher. I had him for zero period and he would capture all of us in the lesson for each day.he was so creative and truly made history come to life through his teaching skills. He will truly be missed.
My sincere condolences to the family of John Bovberg. It speaks volumes of the man just reading these comments. I had him in my sophomore year. I don’t remember many of the teachers from my time at FVHS, but nearly 40 years later I sure remember Mr. Bovberg. His great teaching style, his smile, and his passion for teaching will always be with me. He was always smiling,never saw him down or in a bad mood. The teaching world, and in fact the whole world, needs more Mr. Bovbergs in it. RIP John, you did good!
A competent, thoughtful, engaged & caring teacher is a very rare person. Mr. B was all that & more! Through his creative and entertaing methods, he made history come to vibrant life for his studants. 30 years ago he instilled a love of history in me that thrives to this day. I still remember the first day in class with him, and the many re-enactments we participated in. I liked his class so much as a junior, I took it as one of my electives my senior year! That pleased and flattered him very much. Thank you Mr. B for the love of learning you brought to me and my fellow studants.
Tony Weaver
Class of 84′
John was a superb man. I had the pleasure to student teach for him in US History (1999-2000). Bill Lacey was my university supervisor. I got the Bovberg-Lacey experience as well. Those two men shaped my career. I will be forever grateful to John for all his advice over the years. I am reminded of his passion & generosity every day when I teach. I open my lesson plans and can see his influence & impact. My motto continues to be “Teach Me, I Forget. Show Me, I Understand. Involve Me, I Remember!” John thank you for everything! You will be missed!
Mr B impacted this world in a deep, meaningful and lasting way that few will ever achieve. I’m grateful to have known him. RIP friend and mentor. Peace and prayers to Terri and family.
Jason,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. I was one of Mr B’s players in my Junior year at FVHS, 1988-89, as well as being his teacher’s aid my Senior year, 1989-1990. He had a great impact on me as a student (and most everyone else he came into contact) and I did my best to visit him every time I was home from College up north, as well as bring him Navy Bean soup from Silky Sullivan’s when I had the chance (where myself, my brother and my mom worked, he called me his ‘Connection’).
In 1994 I moved to Amsterdam and didn’t have the chance to see him much more, though I did bring my Dutch husband to visit) but I have never forgotten him or what joy and energy he brought to his classroom.
He was a unique man, proud of his family and his students. I wish you and your family strength and love in this difficult time.
What an incredible and enduring legacy to leave, Mr. B touched so many lives, and the world is a much better place because of his contributions, I know that I am a better man for having known him, I consider it an honor to have met him, and to have called him my teacher and friend. I remember I dropped into his class one time, about 10 years after I graduated, he looked up and recognized me right away, and was so genuinely happy to see me. What I learned from him shaped my life and changed the way I look at the world, I consider myself very lucky to be on of his many many “children”. He was truly a great man.
I always looked forward to his class. Mr. Boverg would do voices to represent historical figures and I was honored to be a Boverg Player. I got to re-enact things like, “Benjamin Franklin, This is Your Life.” Imagine that! I still remember the lessons.
My prayers to the Boverg family. The world has definitely lost a great man who made a difference.
Mr. Bovberg,
What a pleasure it was to be a student of the infamous Bovberg/Lacey class 1977-1978 year. You made learning fun! Who could forget the John Colter run, the genealogy project (to be worked on during Christmas break), learning about the mountain men watching Jeremiah Johnson with Robert Redford & making our own beef jerky. I remember walking to school every morning & always seeing you at the corner of Talbert & Bushard in your old blue car…always bantering with each other. I have always thought of you fondly over the years. You have touched so many & will be deeply missed.
Congratulations to Mr. Bovberg on a life well-lived. So many of us were so fortunate that he found his true calling relatively early in life. His ability to make history come alive not only inspired students to engage in his class, for many it sparked a lifelong hunger for learning. He shares the credit for the success of hundreds, if not thousands, of students, not just because of how he taught but by being the exemplary person he was every day.
Hear, Hear!
I am so deeply saddened by the news of John. He was such an inspiration, friend & mentor to so many of us, who learned how to teach under his guidance & support. I don’t know any person who was more generous and kind than John. I will never forget him, and am so thankful to have had the time that I had with him. Rest in Peace John, and thank you, for leaving a legacy of grateful friends & teachers, including myself, who have learned so much from you, about everything ranging from American History, to teaching, to friendship and life.
So saddened to hear of Mr. Bovberg’s passing.
Those of us inBovberg and Lacey’s classes at FVHS certainly were priveleged
to have such a dynamic duo introducing us to American History. They made learning fun and memorable. Thank you to Mr Bovberg for inspiring my sister Jill Doan Leech in her career choice and as a role model. Gone too soon..
Heaven has gained a beauty of a man, who for me is an Angel. I just know he & Mr. Lacey were the reason I looked forward to getting to class on time. My heart bleeds in pain reading of his passing.Ipray his little mini Bovberg’s know (all his family) know he taught so many of us & he has been called to teach a great many little blessed bundels of joy coming to this earth. You will be missed sorely. Love you Mr. B!!!!!! A.K.A. Ronnie. I pray for the Bovberg family to find peace in Mr. B.’s passing.
Mr. Bovberg, I was blessed to have Mr B as my teacher in my Sophomore year at FVHS. Then, in my junior year I got the privilege to cadet teach with him and Mr Lacey as the dynamic duo teamed up and inspired learning to many. Mr. B coined me Buffalo Dawn from the mountain man series and many years later at his retirement party, still called me that. In fact, he even remembered the subjects of papers I had written for his class. A testament to me that he was a genuine teacher. He made learning fun and memorable, he inspired countless people, he made a difference in everyones life he touched. He is one of the most influential people of my life. A man who will be truely missed. Blessings to his family my heart will ache for all who will miss him.
Jason, my sister Cheryl forwarded this link to me and i so enjoyed reading about your Dad’s life! Bovberg & Lacey were an amazing team of teachers and they allowed me to do my favorite thing….dressing up as a character and performing in front of an audience…and EARN A GRADE for it!! They encouraged me to use my illustration and cartooning skills to make my reports more entertaining, but also emphasized the academic content. American Studies was definitely one of my favorite classes because of them! A life well lived, one that inspired and brought joy to many!
Thank you for the wonderful article on the life of Mr. Bovberg. I remember my time in Mr. Bovberg and Mr. Lacey’s history class as one historical exploration, not just reading about history, or passively memorizing endless statistics. Their class planted a lifelong interest in history in me, that continues today. My home is filled with history books because of these two wonderful teachers and how they made history come alive for their students! Sending blessings to the Bovberg family at this time, and hope that all of the feedback from the numerous students who loved John, sends you some comfort.
We were very sad to hear about John’s passing. We would like to pass on our condolences to the Bovberg family. I had the privilege of being in John’s US history class in 1977, when he and Bill taught out back near the driver’s education building. I was lucky enough to have John as my master teacher in 1994. He is the reason why I’m teaching today. John had a special way connecting with everyone and making them feel special. The way my classroom is setup with historical drawings on the white board, my lesson presentations through his simulations and the love of teaching history is all due John. You will be dearly missed.
Sincerely John Niemeyer
John has been part of Nadine and my life for nearly 50yrs. First- as a student at La Quinta High School where we both taught and John was a student. Then -John and I were teachers and friends at Fountain Valley High School. John, along with Bill Lacey, was also a History instructor for our three children when they attended FVHS.
In my mind as an ex-English History major; the best description of John would be a “hale fellow well met” as defined in the Oxford Dictionary as “heartily friendly and congenial, comradely, hail-fellow – characteristic of or befitting a friend”. I think of John often greeting me with the question “Who rides across the desert on a pig and wears a dirty sheet?” The answer was “Lawrence” as my middle name is Lawrence. He did not show a lot of respect for his former teacher, did he?
I remember his generous sharing of burgers from the “In and Out” runs for the starving teachers in the next room. After I left FVHS and took a job which involved a great deal of time on the road, John and Terry always thought of Nadine and myself. They included us with invitations to parties so that we could keep in contact with old friends and acquaintances from FVHS. He took a personal interest in our family. John always asked about our children [Jacquelyn. Michael and Steven] and what they were doing in their careers and personal lives. He took the time to visit our daughter, Jackie numerous times when he visited his son, Jason in Fort Collins. Steven who is a partner in a design company in Berlin, Germany said, “Mr. Bovberg was a very influential and modern teacher. Bovberg and Lacey had a great way to get the students involved which enabled learning. He made learning funny…that is what teaching is all about and he encompassed that.”
So, even though John has passed on, he remains alive in our memories and in his influence on our children.
“A WELL-LIVED LIFE LEAVES BEAUTIFUL TREASURES SHINING ON OUR SHORES….”
REST WELL OUR FRIEND!
Nadine and Larry Cook
Jacquelyn Cook Curran (1986)
Michael Cook (1989)
Steven Cook (1993)
Dear Jason & family,
I first met John in December, 1966. He and my husband, Jon Knight, where best friends. They attended LaQuinta HS together, played football, participated in track, and were leaders in the student body. They went to Goldenwest and CSUF together. John Bovberg started teaching in CA, and Jon Knight moved to Wilmington, DE to join the Teacher Corp. The two reconnected in 1970 when Jon Knight moved home. In 1973, Jon Knight was killed in an accident. Your father helped me through a very difficult time. I knew I could always count on him for anything. He was a very generous man. He always had time to help out or just listen to the problems of being a single parent. Unfortunately, we lost touch over the years, and for that I am very sad. My hope is that his friends and former students will ease your loss. There is one story I am always found of telling:
At John’s bachelor party, all the “boys” had a little to much to drink. They were walking to Denney’s when they where stopped by a policeman. He looked at your father and asked his name. “John Bovberg,” he replyed. He asked the next one his name and he said, “Jon Knight.” The next young man was asked the same question and he replied, “John Heath.” The policeman looked at the next one and stated, “I guess your name is John too.” He answered, “No, my name is Mike Johnson.” It seemed John was always caught up in extraordinary events. Perhaps it was because he was an extraordinary person. He has certainly left the world a better place.
Marie
I was so sad to hear of Mr.B’s passing. I really enjoyed Mr.B’s & Mr. Lacey’s history class they always made it interesting, it became my favorite subject. Even though we had a big student body at the time (1976) they always had time for you. I’m married to a world history teacher. We both work at the same high school. I’m a paraeducator and I work with all students in the classroom (especially special needs students). I always wanted to help in the classroom. I have Bovberg & Lacey to thank for that. Thank you to the Bovberg family for allow us to spend time with Mr.B. Always and forever a Baron.
Dear Jason,
Thank you for having this page for everyone who knew your dad John Bovberg.
My deepest Sympathies to the whole Bovberg family, and all who knew him.
I was one of his afternoon students in FVHS who had the pleasure of learning from Mr. B, and Mr. Lacey…although Mr.B was my home room class. His teachings and kindness extended passed the classroom. My last day in his classrroom, he shook my hand and asked that I keep in touch with him. Over the years I did, and when the web expanded, sending him a message now and again was easier. I told him about my continuing education, and becoming a Pre-K teacher… he still remembered me!
That’s the type of teacher he was. He took the time to be memorable, and make memories. And he will never be forgotten.
Bless you all for sharing Mr. B with so many, and for continuing to share him here… for letting us share back.
Also, I don’t think the FVHS gymnasium will be large enough for his memorial! There at least 32 students in my class alone, and you multiply that by about 10 years or so 😉
Many of the things I remember most vividly remember, from 1963 (I was 14, he must have been 15) through the late-80’s (when our lives diverged), can’t, or shouldn’t, be recounted here. But, in our high school “gang of 5″‘ he was always the caring, good-hearted & sensible one. He gave me a lot more than I was ever able to give back.
We hadn’t talked in 10 or 12 years, but it always made me feel good knowing he was out there doing a job he genuinely loved. My heart is aching……..
I went to La Quinta HS and graduated with John in 1966. He was a dear friend and will be missed by many o fhis friends. I have posted to FACEBOOK and also the LQ Alumni Association, his obituary. Please tell his family of the true love we all felt for him. Last time I saw him was at our 10th year Class Reunion in 1976.
Mr. B was one of a kind. He also serves as a role-model for what I do in the classroom as a teacher. Every student received his respect until it was no longer earned. I had the pleasure of catching up with him by telephone a couple of years ago, quite by accident. We first re-connected online, and was willing to provide his personal contact information so we could speak. Once I heard his voice it seemed that the many years since we had conversed melted away into seconds. Even more than 30 years after graduation he remembered me.
The best aspect I can remember about Mr B is that he was truly genuine, and one-of-a-kind! You may no longer be present on this earth, but your spirit will live on in those you touched!
Jim Lipot, Class of ’74 – FVHS
I just heard about Mr. Bovberg’s passing. Mr. B. was my teacher in 84-85 and I absolutely loved being taught by him and Mr. Lacey. It was a privilege and an honor to be in that class; his teaching style was so unique. I was also a “player” and my two fondest player memories are: who really discovered America and putting King George III on trial. Mr. B. was one of my two favorite teachers at FVHS. He really made an impact. My condolences to his family.
I was extremely fortunate to have John as a Master Teacher 20 years ago. When I walked into his classroom at Fountain Valley High School, it was immediately apparent that I knew next to nothing about teaching.
Not realizing the power of student engagement, I expected students to be captivated by my in depth analysis of the American Industrial Machine. From historical simulations and video snippets to drawings on the walls and whiteboards, I learned to develop a student-centered curriculum that not only engaged students, but also inspired them to step up and recreate history in the classroom. Since then we have kept in touch and worked together teaching teachers from Anaheim, and up until last year, Placentia and Yorba Linda.
I am glad I had a chance to tell John how much he helped me just by being John. I know there are hundreds of other lives touched by this exceptional human being.
Describing John
A twinkle in his eye
A charismatic smile
A heart as big as Jupiter
He rolled with mirth and style
You lived well
Mr.B was a great teacher, facilitator, and mentor along with Mr Lacey. I had him for Junior History and then was his aide my senior year. What he taught me was a love of history and to believe in myself. I often told my girls what an amazing teacher he was and was so sad that neither of my girls were able to experience Mr B.
I do some teaching in my current profession and I always try to dig deep and bring a little of Mr. B to my classes. My oldest daughter is doing her student teaching and she will be a history teacher. I hope that she will touch as many lives as Mr. B did.
I loved Mr. Bovberg so very much…he and Mr. Lacey were my history teachers at Fountain Valley High School. I have spoke often about the teaching styles of Mr.Bovberg and Mr. Lacey…I am 53 years old now, but those days of being 16 was made very special by two very important teachers in my life…God Bless those two men for making a difference in so many lives…it’s a testament of their commitment to their love of teaching.
So sorry to hear that the world has lost a source of joy and laughter …
Mr. B was always an encouragement and a source of support. Though I wasn’t his history student, I was encouraged by his mentorship in student services. He made me feel special and valued, and for a painfully shy fellow “Scandinavian” in 1979 Southern California, this was a gift. I’m sorry that his life was cut off at such a young age; the world needs more John Bovbergs.
In 1985, John Bovberg and Bill Lacey were my teachers. I was part of a special acting team they would call on once a month for the other students. In 1993, my college refused to have them be my master teachers because Fountain Valley was too far away from Azusa. So I did my student teaching for a nearby teacher who taught me how to give lectures and show filmstrips. When I finally became a teacher, I would go each week, early in the morning to meet with Mr. Lacey and Mr. Bovberg; we created a second student teaching opportunity for me on our own, independent of any college. I know I still had to learn how to be a teacher, and they walked me though it, loaning lesson plans, giving advice, and through constant encouragement. I owe my professional career to John Bovberg and Bill Lacey. Thank you, John, for the wonderful person you continue to be for me. Your legacy goes on.
Roseanne Greenfield, Class of ’78
John was a mentor, friend, teacher, and inspiration to me from 1978 until the present. He was more than a teacher and mentor teacher, but cared about everyone on an individual basis. He made you feel as though you were the only one in the room, and that there was no obstacle that laughter could not overcome. He helped me with my first teaching job and my last one, happily dishing out cartloads of inspiration, advice, teaching materials and encouragement. And, lots of good food and laughter. Thank you for teaching me about history, life, caring, and the things that really matter in life.
Roseanne Greenfield
So sorry to hear of John’s passing. Always wore a smile that was contagious. Sincere condolences to Terri and family.
John was such a great man who always had a smile on his face. At the memorial someone said that he will never be forgotten because we will always have memories with him and everyday someone will think of him. I think of him everyday because i know he is up in heaven with Auggie sitting out on the porch throwing a party like he always did. John will never be forgotten and yes I may have only known him for a couple of years but we just had a special bond that I will never forget. I LOVE AND MISS YOU JOHN!!!!
Love always,
Sierra (neighbor and friend)
I was sad to read that Mr. Bovberg had passed. He was kind and as one of his students from 1979-1980 he was a friend. I enjoyed the way he taught and his passion for history. Of all my fond memories of high school his classes were the most memorable.
God Bless Mr. Bolverg, your work is done.
Larry M. Howard
Class of 1980
St. George, UT
Nice job Ole’ Sport. 😉
I was a friend of John’s from Irvine and we moved to Henderson, NV about five yrs ago and regretfully just found out about his passing a few weeks ago. I will always cherish a book he gave me that had been presented to him. He gave it to me in August of 1988 and it made history alive for me. The title is Presidential Anecdotes. Peace to a great teacher and role model. I remember fondly his son Jason at Woodbridge movie theatre and daughter Missy and lovely wife Terri who worked with my wife Anne at Wintersburg H.S. Would like to get more info on any scholarship fund in his memory. So sorry for your loss and especially sad we just found out recently.
I learned a lot from John Bovberg, but not until a decade had passed since my graduation from Fountain Vally High School. I met him in his role as Student Teacher Coordinator. Perhaps because he was so fair in recommending several colleagues as prospective mentors, I asked him to serve as one of my Master Teachers. His guidance was wise, practical, and encouraging. His generosity with teaching materials was legendary. Observing his teaching taught me a great deal about how to mix praise and challenges that inspire students to improve themselves. The other Adams brothers and sisters assigned to the Bovberg-Lacey team at FVHS were fortunate indeed. Mr. B. reached young people who struggled as readily as those who excelled. My best days as a teacher came when I managed to emulate John Bovberg in that respect.
After seven years of teaching from Silicon Valley to Santa Ana, I decided to pursue new adventures. Before heading ever farther north, I left in his care the American flag lectern I built for my classroom. Finally getting to see a true master teacher behind that symbol of a democracy that depends on educated citizens gives me great pleasure. Thank you, Jason, for including that photo of your father at work in this fine memorial.
You and Missy probably will not remember being introduced to one more in the long line of lucky student teachers invited to your parents’ home. There I glimpsed the devotion John and Terri had for each other, frequently expressed in thoughtful gifts being prepared or appearing at FVHS. Loving pride in their children must have made for an especially close family.
Please accept my belated condolences for the loss of your wonderful father and the recent passing of your dear mother.