David Mogen, 80

David Lee Mogen was born to Harold and Thelma (Wilson) Mogen in Bremerton, Wash., Sept. 7, 1945. He died Jan. 2, 2026, in Coeur d’Alene, in the Hospice of North Idaho. David and his five siblings were raised in small towns along the Montana Hi-Line, where David’s father was a school superintendent. This unique background, along with David’s innate curiosity and creativity, informed his academic pursuits and writings throughout his life. 

David graduated from Froid High School, received a bachelor’s degree from Columbia University, and a PhD from the University of Colorado. He retired from Colorado State University, where he was professor emeritus of English. He is the author or editor of a number of books, including Ray Bradbury and a Montana family memoir, Honyocker Dreams, for which he was a finalist for a High Plains book award. David’s career as a professor of English at Colorado State University earned him speaking invitations across the US and in Europe on the cultural impact of the American frontier.

David loved fly fishing, bridge, cribbage, good conversation, sports and writing.  He followed politics and enjoyed talking about world and national culture change with his friends and family. He loved singing with his siblings and learned to play the guitar. He organized multiple writing groups, most recently in Missoula and at North Star, a senior living facility in Coeur d’Alene, where he spent the last two years of his life.

David was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Kirk. He is survived by four siblings: Philip Mogen (Kathy), Doris Mogen (Ed), Michael Mogen (Pamela), Helen Sobeck (Dave), former spouse Elizabeth Hobbs and stepdaughter Jessy Lorion. 

David will be sorely missed by his family and friends.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Jan. 10, at 2 p.m. at Northstar Assisted Living, 2340 W. Seltice Way, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Yates Funeral Home provides arrangements. An online registry and condolences are available at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.