The College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University communities are mourning the loss of Warren “Boz” Bostrom, a beloved professor, author, and former Johnnies football player, who passed away this week at age 52 following complications from liver failure.
Bostrom, who taught accounting and finance, was a cornerstone of the academic and athletic communities at CSB and SJU. A proud 1995 graduate of Saint John’s University, Bostrom returned to his alma mater after a successful accounting career to teach and mentor the next generation of business professionals. He earned tenure in 2011 and became a full professor in 2020, a reflection of his dedication to education and his deep commitment to his students.
Known affectionately as “Boz” by colleagues, students, and friends, Bostrom’s impact extended well beyond the classroom. A passionate supporter of the Johnnies athletic program, he was often seen cheering on student-athletes and celebrating the school’s proud sports legacy. His love for the university’s football program was immortalized in his co-authorship of A Legacy Unrivaled, a book he wrote alongside legendary coach John Gagliardi.
In late summer, Bostrom revealed publicly that he had been diagnosed with end-stage liver failure after initially believing he was dealing with gallstones or a digestive issue. Despite his diagnosis and the pain that came with it, he continued to teach this fall, determined to spend as much time as possible doing what he loved most — being in the classroom.
His final messages on social media reflected his gratitude, humility, and love for his family and students. In a poignant LinkedIn post shared three weeks ago, Bostrom wrote about celebrating 10 years of sobriety — a milestone that came just as he learned he would soon need a liver transplant to survive.
“In times like these, it becomes pretty clear what matters most,” he wrote. “For me, that’s by far my wife (Kacey) and kids (Wyatt and Sofia). Beyond that, it’s being in the classroom with my students. It’s what I was called to do … my smile is genuine. I’m in a very good place. I have so much to fight for.”
His words, now seen as a reflection of his character and strength, have resonated deeply with those who knew him.
In an interview with The Record, the university’s student newspaper, Bostrom shared how his faith sustained him through his health battle. “I have a strong faith,” he said. “The strong faith just kind of keeps me comfortable about where I’ll be if it all goes south … there’s no point to sitting here worrying, it’s an understanding that it’s out of my hands.”
University officials, students, and alumni have expressed an outpouring of grief and admiration for Bostrom’s legacy. Many described him as a teacher who brought energy and authenticity into every lecture — someone who truly cared about his students not just as learners, but as people.
“Boz wasn’t just a professor; he was a mentor, a friend, and a guiding light,” one former student shared on social media. “He challenged us to think critically, live with integrity, and always find purpose in what we do.”
As St. John’s and St. Benedict’s communities come together to honor his memory, Bostrom will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but for his humanity — a man of faith, passion, and profound love for his family, his students, and his university.