Brian Vogt, the chief executive officer of Denver Botanic Gardens since 2007, has died at 66 following an illness, the organization announced Tuesday. Related Articles “What would a rock say if it could talk?” Denver Botanic Gardens explores the connection between people and natur e Millions of dollars in arts funding for Denver could have dried up. Here’s why it didn’t. Denver Botanic Gardens announces full summer concert lineup: Red Rocks headliners, Grammy nominees 6 hot Denver-area art shows to get you through a cold winter Letters: “Bravo, Boulder” for targeting Suncor and Exxon in clean air lawsuit Denver Botanic Gardens cannot release when Vogt died or what caused his death, spokesperson Erin Bird said. He had been ill but his death was not expected, she said. Vogt previously worked in economic development, leading a campaign to establish the city of Centennial and leading the state’s Office of Economic Development & International Trade before he was hired as CEO at the botanic gardens. “The Gardens would not be the thriving hub of enlightenment, healing and connection without Brian’s passionate and dedicated vision. We are grateful for the many years he gave the Gardens, and his imprint will help us flourish for years to come,” the organization said in a statement. This is a developing story and will be updated. Get more Colorado news by signing up for our daily Your Morning Dozen email newsletter. ...read more read less