St. John’s University Mourns the Loss of Beloved Alumnus, Athlete, and Professor Warren Bostrom
COLLEGEVILLE, MN — The St. John’s University (SJU) community is mourning the heartfelt loss of Warren “Boz” Bostrom, a cherished alumnus, former student-athlete, and respected professor, who passed away following a courageous and extended battle with illness. He was a proud member of the Class of 1995, a standout Johnnie football player, and a beloved professor of accounting and finance, whose legacy will long outlive his time on earth.
Boz, as he was affectionately known by friends, colleagues, and students, embodied the values of integrity, passion, humility, and purpose — traits he carried through every chapter of his life, from the football field to the lecture hall.
“Boz was the heart and soul of what it means to be a Johnnie,” said SJU President Brian J. Bruess. “He wasn’t just part of this community — he helped shape it. His impact on students, athletes, and fellow faculty will never be forgotten.”
From Johnnie Football Player to Campus Mentor
Warren Bostrom’s journey with St. John’s began as an undergraduate in the early 1990s, where he not only excelled academically but also thrived as a Johnnie football player, earning the respect of teammates and coaches alike for his leadership, drive, and sportsmanship.
After graduating in 1995 with a degree in accounting, Warren embarked on a successful career in finance and education, but his heart always remained at SJU. He returned to his alma mater years later — this time as a professor — bringing with him a wealth of real-world experience and a profound commitment to shaping future generations of business leaders.
Students remember Professor Bostrom as an engaging, rigorous, yet deeply compassionate educator. He had a rare ability to challenge minds while offering unwavering support, always encouraging his students to think critically and act ethically.
“He made finance real and meaningful,” said Sarah T., a former student. “But more than that, he made you believe in yourself. You could tell he genuinely cared about your growth, not just as a student, but as a person.”
A Life Lived With Purpose and Passion
Despite his battle with illness, Warren continued to teach, mentor, and serve the university community for as long as he could. His dedication to education, even in the face of personal adversity, inspired those around him and left a deep and lasting impression on the students who had the privilege of learning from him.
Faculty colleagues describe him as a pillar of wisdom and camaraderie, always available for thoughtful conversation, spontaneous humor, or a helping hand. He brought a level of energy and excellence to the classroom that reflected the same passion he once showed on the football field.
“He was a teammate through and through,” said longtime colleague and friend Dr. Lisa McKinley. “Whether you were on the gridiron or at a faculty meeting, Boz had your back.”
Remembering a Beloved Johnnie
News of Warren’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance from across the broader SJU and CSB (College of Saint Benedict) communities. Alumni, students, faculty, and fellow athletes have flooded social media with memories, photos, and tributes celebrating the man who touched so many lives.
His legacy lives on through the hundreds of students he mentored, the colleagues he inspired, and the family he adored. Warren is survived by his loving family, whose strength and grace throughout his illness have moved all who know them.
“Boz taught us how to live with passion and face adversity with courage,” said one former teammate. “Now we’ll carry those lessons forward in his honor.”
Celebration of Life
St. John’s University will hold a celebration of life for Warren Bostrom in the coming weeks. The event will be open to the entire Johnnie and Bennie community, offering a space to gather, share stories, and honor the extraordinary life of a man who gave so much of himself to others.
In lieu of flowers, the Bostrom family has requested donations be made to a scholarship fund being established in Warren’s name, which will benefit SJU students pursuing studies in accounting and finance — a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to empowering others.
A Legacy That Endures
Warren “Boz” Bostrom may no longer walk the halls of St. John’s University, but his spirit — his fierce intellect, generous heart, unwavering values, and infectious enthusiasm — will forever echo across campus.
He was a Johnnie through and through: a student who grew into a leader, a player who became a mentor, and a professor who turned classrooms into launching pads for success.
Though gone far too soon, his life was full, his impact profound, and his memory eternal.
Rest in peace, Boz. Your Johnnie family will never forget you.
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