John Barela Ogas

John Barela Ogas, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2024, in Denver, Colorado to rejoin his beloved hometown sweetheart and wife of 59 years, Helen Melendrez Ogas. John was born September 2, 1933, in Silver City, New Mexico to parents Reyes and Julia Ogas. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings CB Ogas, Alfred Ogas, Reyes Ogas, Frank Ogas, and Hope Ogas Maynes. He is survived by his two sisters Blanche Ogas Acosta and Genevieve Ogas Montoya; his three children diana jean ogas frederick (Ron), John Douglas Ogas (Allison), and Karen Ogas Stoughton (Bill); and three grandchildren, Hayley Ogas, Johnny Stoughton, and Blakeley Stoughton, in addition to many beloved family members, friends, and classmates.

John was given a Senatorial appointment to the United States Naval Academy after growing up in Silver City, a small town in southern New Mexico. A graduate of the class of 1957, John chose a commission with the U.S. Air Force to engage directly with the burgeoning missile program, marking the beginning of a distinguished career. He married the love of his life Helen Melendrez in 1958 and together they built a life full of joy with their three wonderful children.

John was dedicated to God, his family, and to his country as an Air Force Lieutenant Colonel. After training for the Matador Missile Program at Lowry AFB to further the U.S. missile capabilities, John shifted his focus to the Thor IRBM amid the tensions of the Cold War, signifying his commitment to global security. His service led him to England, where alongside the RAF, he managed the Thor Missile sites. As a reliability engineer for the Defense Atomic Support Agency and later in his civilian career, John continued to exhibit exceptional skill and unwavering integrity. John leaves behind a legacy of honor, having been at the forefront of the Nuclear Defense System, a stalwart guardian during the Cuban Missile Crisis, and a man who deeply understood the weight of responsibility that came with his role. His work was critical in ensuring peace during times when the threat of nuclear war loomed large.

Retiring after 22 years of service, he found purpose in consulting, enjoying the company of his wife, children, and grandchildren who will remember him for his deep love, guidance, and the amazing stories of a life incredibly well-lived. He acknowledged his many blessings all throughout his life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy by serving our country with distinction will continue to inspire those who aspire to serve with honor and love with all their hearts.

Local services for John and Helen Ogas will be held on Thursday May 30th with a mass at 10:00 am at St. Dominic Catholic Church, 2905 Federal Blvd, Denver, Colorado 80211. The service will be livestreamed for those who can’t make it to Denver at the following link: http://stdominicdenver.org/

John and Helen will be laid to rest at 12:30 pm at Ft. Logan National Cemetery, 4400 West Kenyon Ave, Denver, Colorado 80236.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your favorite charity in John’s memory.

Family and friends will be invited to a gathering after the services, details to follow.