J Harold "Shorty" Boger

“Shorty”, as he was known by all, passed peacefully on Christmas Eve at Trustbridge Care Center. A major stroke 13 years ago changed the course of his retirement; but he continued to enjoy his favorite activities until recently when a series of health issues and a final major stroke resulted in his passing.

Shorty grew up in the small town of Mocksville, North Carolina, the son of Evelyn & Reid Boger, the youngest of 6 children. Evelyn, known to all as “Granny Boger” was a strong and loving mother, but it was his grandfather who became his guiding influence. Shorty was a typical country boy loving the outdoors and all the activities associated with country life including hunting and fishing.

Shorty left North Carolina in the early 1960’s to find a new life in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida where he joined his older brother Jesse to learn the plumbing business. It was not long before he excelled in his craft and relocated to Boca Raton, Florida and joined Whitaker Plumbing. He quickly established a reputation as the “go to” problem solver and acquired a significant customer base. It seemed everyone knew “Shorty”. In 1999 he became the Facilities Manager for Schmidt Companies properties where he was able to use his many talents. An avid reader with the desire to educate himself about any project he was to undertake, this position was very fulfilling for him until his retirement in 2006.

Shorty’s hobbies included photography, especially bird and wilflife photography, which gained him an exhibit at Wingate University in North Carolina. He was an avid sportsman and loved to travel and water ski. His interests also included woodworking, carpentry and building.

Shorty leaves behind the love of his life, Maria Levix, who has been by his side and his source of support for 34 years, as well as 3 daughters, their spouses and 3 grandchildren, and his 2 remaining siblings.

Always a smile and a story to tell, Shorty will be missed by many. He was not even aware of how much his guiding influences and teachings affected so many young men along the way. This is the true legacy he leaves behind.

A Celebration of His Life will be held on Saturday, January 14, 2023 at Babione-Kraeer Funeral Home. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at ww.babionesouthflorida.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Shorty’s honor to Vets Helping Heroes.