Rick Ogen, North Wildwood Councilman, Passes Away

NORTH WILDWOOD — Councilman J. Richard (Rick) Ogen, a long-time resident of this city, passed away late Fri., April 13 at Cape Regional Medical Center.
Ogen, a realtor, lived in North Wildwood for more than 25 years.
A graduate of Camden High School, he attended Rutgers University where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. He worked as a realtor for more than 40 years; 25 of which were spent with Avalon Real Estate.
Ogen’s career as a councilman began when he was appointed to fill an unexpired term and then successfully ran on his own.
“You couldn’t ask for a better councilman,” said Mayor Bill Henfey. “He was a great guy; always there for you.”
Ogen brought his real estate expertise to his position as a councilman when he became council’s representative to the city’s Planning Board.
“Rick was a straight shooting guy,” said Henfey. “He was very deliberate. He never gave a knee jerk reaction. He always thought things through.”
In addition to Ogen’s real estate career he was also a partner with his wife, Phyllis, in Phyls Ice Cream on the Wildwood Boardwalk.
Ogen, an accomplished musician, performed as a trumpeter and vocalist with The Love Affair Band. His was also interested in boating, fishing and tennis.
“I am going to miss him,” said Henfey. “He was just an all-around great guy and a nice person.”
Ogen was a member of the Cape May County Board of Realtors; Greater Wildwood Elks Lodge 1896; St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church; and North Wildwood Republican Club.
Ogen is survived by his wife of 44 years, Phyllis; son Richard of Cape May; and daughter Donna Burkhardt of Cold Spring. Two grandchildren, Taylor and Morgan Burkhardt, also survive him.
A celebration Ogen’s life will take place Wed., April 18,from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the Evoy Funeral Home, 3218 Bayshore Rd, North Cape May. Interment will be private.
Donations in Ogen’s memory may be made to the Cape May County Animal Shelter, 110 Shelter Rd, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210.