The couple married in 1961 after meeting on a blind date and raised four children—each born in a different city, including Casablanca, Ann Arbor, Inglewood, and finally Pasadena, where they settled permanently. In their early years in Pasadena, Bill and Claire were deeply involved in local schools and neighborhood associations, including the West Pasadena Neighborhood Association. Claire’s leadership extended to serving on various boards, including the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Pasadena Planning Commission.
In the mid-1970s, Claire emerged as a leading voice in Pasadena’s historic preservation movement, driven by her deep appreciation for architecture and neighborhood character. Alarmed by city plans to demolish large portions of the historic downtown, including the Civic Center and Old Pasadena, for freeway and high-rise development, Claire galvanized a group of concerned residents to take action. At a time when preservation was far from popular, she recognized the cultural and architectural value of Pasadena’s aging buildings and saw their potential for revitalization rather than destruction.
Though her husband Bill was also involved in the effort, it was Claire’s passion and persistence that laid the groundwork for Pasadena Heritage’s enduring legacy. Under her guidance, the organization quickly became a respected advocate for preservation, challenging city proposals and promoting alternatives that honored Pasadena’s architectural heritage. Claire’s work during this pivotal period not only saved iconic buildings but also helped redefine the city’s identity as one that values its past while planning for its future.
Jeannine, Claire, and Bill Bogaard at PCF’s 2023 Legacy Luncheon.
Bill’s professional journey included two decades in securities and finance law, followed by executive leadership at First Interstate Bancorp. After the company’s merger with Wells Fargo, he transitioned to public service, serving as Pasadena’s mayor from 1999 to 2015. His post-mayoral contributions include board service with Huntington Hospital, Pasadena Community Foundation, A Noise Within, and Pasadena Bioscience Collaborative. Together, Bill and Claire Bogaard have left an indelible mark on Pasadena through their vision, advocacy, and enduring commitment to the city’s cultural and civic life.
Grantmaking Impact
Through this fund, PCF has been able to
- Provide sustained and flexible funding
- Offer consistent financial support for our local grantmaking programs throughout Greater Pasadena
- Enhance community programs
- Empower organizations to expand their services and reach more individuals in need
- Direct resources when and where they are needed most, respond quickly to emerging needs, and fill funding gaps that restricted gifts can’t cover.
Contact Us
For more information about PCF giving opportunities, please contact
Pasadena Community Foundation
301 E. Colorado Blvd., Suite 810
Pasadena, CA., 91101
626.796.2097
pcfstaff@pasadenacf.org
