Aleck Gray Ogilvie
Obituary

With heavy hearts and a treasure trove of memories, we announce the passing of Aleck Ogilvie—a beloved father, proud grandfather, and cherished friend—who left us on May 12, 2025, in Riverside, California, at the age of 84.

Born in Pasadena on April 30, 1941, Aleck was a true Californian whose zest for life was matched only by his kindness and quick wit. He was a man who understood that happiness is built from simple pleasures: the thrill of boating down the Colorado River, the satisfaction of a freshly waxed car gleaming in the driveway, and the quiet joy of tending to his garden under the golden California sun. His love for the ocean drew him to beaches like Waikiki Beach as a voluntary lifeguard while drafted in the Army. 

But if you ever had the privilege of attending one of Aleck’s legendary backyard barbecues, you know that he was the undisputed king of burgers—so good, they could have graced the menus of world-famous eateries. Friends and family would gather, drawn by the irresistible aroma, laughter echoing as Aleck flipped patties with the same care he gave to everything in his life. And no summer gathering was complete without his homemade whipped cream, piled high on strawberry shortcakes—a sweet tradition that delighted his granddaughters Gianna and Giulia.

Aleck’s sense of adventure didn’t stop at his front door. He loved spontaneous day trips to Palm Springs, where he’d explore eateries and stop for a date shake—making memories that would become cherished family rituals.

True to his name, Aleck was a “smart Aleck”—his wit as quick as his smile, always ready with a clever remark to lighten the mood. Yet beneath the humor was a heart of gold and he was steadfast in his support for his daughters and younger sister, Shelia. He took pride in every detail and welcomed all with open arms, creating a space where everyone felt valued and at ease.

Aleck’s professional journey led him through a long and successful career in metal sales, and later, he found joy in connecting deeply with customers and sharing gardening tips that mirrored life lessons at Home Depot. His warmth and genuine interest in others turned ordinary encounters into lasting friendships.

Life threw Aleck more than a few curveballs, but he was a master at rebuilding—twice over, he faced adversity with quiet strength and emerged, each time, more loving and resilient than before. His ability to persevere, to love deeply, and to support those around him was his greatest triumph.

Above all, Aleck’s heart belonged to his family. He was a devoted father to his daughters, Gina Ogilvie and Sandy Martin, family-in-law to Armando Martin, doting grandfather to Gianna and Giulia Budhraja, and best friend/big brother to Shelia Beach. He gave them a foundation of unwavering love, loyalty, and laughter—gifts that will echo through generations.

A Memorial Service will be held in the Tam O’ Shanters Garden, followed by a luncheon in the adjacent Royal Guards Room at the historic Tam O’ Shanter, 2890 Los Feliz Blvd., Los Angeles, 90039, on Thursday, June 5th at 11:30 AM. Please RSVP to Gina Ogilvie at 818-590-5910 (call or text) with your name and total number in your party.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made toward a college savings fund for Aleck’s beloved granddaughters, Gianna and Giulia — a tribute he would have treasured.

Aleck’s legacy is one of laughter, resilience, and boundless love. He leaves behind a family forever grateful for the joy of having called him theirs, and a circle of friends who will remember his BBQs, his stories, and his heart.