John Vogel IV, 1953–2025, ‘delighted in bringing joy to others’

John M. Vogel IV, of Waltham, passed away unexpectedly in his home on Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025, at the age of 72.

Born on May 1 1953 in Waltham, he was the son of the late John M. “Bud” Vogel III and Jeannette (Ilquca) Vogel. John was raised in Watertown, where he graduated from Watertown High School with the Class of 1971. A gifted athlete, he stood out as an exceptional football player during his school years.

On Aug. 25 1990, John married the love of his life, Joanne M. Mobilia, at Sacred Heart Church in Waltham. Together they made their home in Waltham, where they raised their family and shared 40 beautiful years of marriage.

John’s career was marked by dedication and versatility, working dozens of jobs and bringing his passion and strong work ethic. He worked as a recruiter for the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development as well devoting 30 years to Amtrak at South Station in Boston. He even for short while lived his dream job of working for Walt Disney world in Orlando, Florida, where he delighted in bringing joy to others. He often reminisced of how it would blow his mind that the kids would have so much fun just on his tram rides that they would want to stay all day.

A man of many passions, John loved music and playing the guitar. In his later years he even won a song writing contest that the legendary B.B. King picked to record on an album. He also enjoyed playing chess and Risk, going to the movies, and was a devoted fan of Star Trek, mini golf, Elvis, and the New England Patriots. In 2018, he was thrilled to win a luxury box suite for a game that turned out to be the end zone in which Tom Brady would go on to throw his 500th touchdown.

Above all else, John’s greatest joy was his family. After losing his father at a young age, he lovingly cared for his mother, creating lasting memories through their annual Mother’s Day trips to Canobie Lake Park and family vacations to Cape Cod. His devotion to his wife and son was unwavering—his family was his world.

John was known as the quiet, soft-spoken man who, by the end of the evening, would become the life of the party. His warmth, humor, and genuine appreciation for all touched the life of everyone he met.

He is survived by his beloved wife and soulmate of 50 years, Joanne M. (Mobilia) Vogel; his devoted and loving son, John M. “Buddy” Vogel V and his Wife Vicki of Franklin; his brother, Richard “Rick” Vogel and his wife Felice of Waltham; his niece Sara Vogel; nephews Brian and the late Marc; brother-in-law Frank Sparks of Florida; and his great-nephew Liam. John is also survived by many cousins, extended family members, and friends who will cherish his memory. He was predeceased by his dear sister Robyn Sparkes, and ancestor Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Family and friends will forever remember John as a man who loved deeply, lived fully, and always put family first.

Those who wish to pay their respects to John and his family can do so in the Mary Catherine Chapel of Brasco & Sons Memorial, 773 Moody Street, Waltham on Tuesday Oct. 7 prior to the funeral service, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Parking attendants will be on duty.

Family and friends are welcome to gather and celebrate John’s life and to remember the love and friendship he shared with so many at a funeral service in the Mary Catherine Chapel of Brasco & Sons Memorial, 773 Moody Street, Waltham on Tuesday afternoon Oct. 7 at 12:00 p.m.