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Brian R. Bodager, recognized as a "visionary leader" by his peers, led the Pension Boards-United Church of Christ (PBUCC) as CEO and President from 2015 until early 2025. His leadership was marked by significant transformations aimed at enhancing the financial well-being of UCC clergy and their families.
Walter A. Reyes, PBUCC Interim President and CEO, noted Bodager's dedication to ensuring ministers' financial stability: “He was a visionary leader who understood clergy and how important it was to have sustainable livelihoods — to not just have a thriving career but a thriving retirement as well.”
Bodager passed away on February 15 at the age of 69, shortly after retiring due to health reasons. He had announced his retirement in late 2024 and officially stepped down on February 1.
His tenure saw numerous initiatives like the Shared Resource Model in 2022 and "Investment Watch" webinars in 2023. These efforts were part of his broader vision for an inclusive company culture where all voices were encouraged to contribute.
Reyes recalled Bodager's approach: “Imagine with me,” he would say, fostering what became known as brain tornado sessions filled with diverse ideas. “He pushed the organization way beyond," Reyes added.
The Rev. Dr. Rodney Franklin, Board of Trustees Chair of PBUCC, highlighted Bodager's ability to turn ideas into reality: “He set a standard of what an organization could be.”
Rev. Dr. Charles Mize reflected on Bodager’s commitment: “Leading the Pension Boards-UCC was his ministry. It was his dream job.” Mize had recommended Bodager for a position on the PBUCC Board of Trustees years earlier.
At the time of his death, UCC’s General Minister and President/CEO Rev. Karen Georgia Thompson expressed her gratitude for Bodager’s welcoming nature: “I am grateful for his quiet and grace-filled presence... Brian will be missed.”
A memorial service is scheduled at The Chapel of The Interchurch Center in New York on March 26, while a celebration of life will take place in Wisconsin on June 14.
