Rocky Joseph Vogl – March 3, 2024

In Loving Memory of Rocky Joseph Vogl

Rocky Joseph Vogl, born on April 20, 1957, made his transition on March 3, 2024. His journey began in Lewistown, Montana, where he spent his early years on his grandfather’s ranch running around with his brothers and cousins, before his family relocated to Buffalo, Wyoming. Rocky graduated from Buffalo High School in 1975, marking the foundation of his diverse and impactful life.

After high school, he attended automotive school and emerged as a professional mechanic. His adeptness in fixing anything fueled his life-long passion for car projects, a source of both joy and frustration in his garage retreat.

In 1976, Rocky enlisted in the Army as an Armor Crewman, showcasing exceptional skills as an expert marksman. He also engaged in boxing, exemplifying his commitment to excellence in all pursuits. His military service took him to Germany, providing the opportunity to explore Europe and parts of Asia over three memorable years. Rocky’s dedication to his country earned him an honorable discharge in 1980. He was a proud and accomplished veteran and went back to his passion of working on cars.

In 1982 Rocky was married to his first wife, and in 1985 they moved to Colorado, settling a few years later when they purchased in Peyton Pines. After moving to Colorado, Rocky attended the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, where he proudly earned a bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics and electrical engineering using his GI Bill.

Rocky had a full life filled with family and his passions. In 1989 he welcomed his first son, William, and two years later a second son, Daniel. During the beginning of fatherhood, his commitment to education continued with certifications in range management and artificial insemination which would later fuel his many careers. Rocky’s entrepreneurial spirit would lead him to many ventures, from ranching to tree farming and real-estate investment into fix-and-flip projects in El Paso County, earning him a reputation for integrity and expertise as a business owner, and as a landlord.

Starting his investment journey was the purchase of 600 acres, which he subdivided for sale and utilized as a cattle ranch. Simultaneously entering the realms of cattle ranching and real estate, he utilized a USDA backed loan to make this initial investment. He thrived as a cattle rancher, a dedicated 4H leader, and emphasized the importance of beef and animal husbandry to his sons, sharing his profound knowledge and passion. He also pursued dog breeding with his family, founding Von Vogl Kennels which flourished under his care, raising many purebred German Shepherds that earned him numerous ribbons.

His most spoken about adventure was founding Centennial River Ranch. Rocky cultivated and moved tens of thousands of evergreen trees over 37 years. He firmly believed in making Colorado a greener place for future generations, believing that urban foresting was the only way the earth is getting reforested.

Rocky married Barb Angell on the first day of fall in 2009, and joining their families brought many new adventures. Rocky and Barb were partners in life and business until he died. In the later years Rocky enjoyed being a grandpa to his six grandchildren and spending time getting back into his passion of working on cars.

He is survived by his wife, Barb Angell;  his mother, Rose Vogl-Young; his sons: William (Karissa) Vogl of Black Forest, CO, Daniel (Cassie) Vogl of Yoder, CO, and Corbin (Felicia) Simmons of Ellicott, CO; daughters: Danni Rose (Skylor) Angell of Springfield, MO and Leslie (Mychael) Simmons of Charleston, SC; his six grandchildren; his brothers: Ricky (Heidi) Vogl, Randy Vogl, Chris Vogl; and his sister, Robinn (Doug) McAllister; his first wife, Karen (Gary) Vogl; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A celebration of Rocky’s life will take place on his 67th birthday at his cherished ranch on April 20, 2024 at 1:00 p.m.