Ernest Charles Bugaj

Visitation with the family will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with the Rosary being recited at 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, September 3, 2019 at Pat H. Foley Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, September 4, 2019 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church with Father Jim Anderson as celebrant. Burial will be at Forest Park Westheimer.

Ernest Charles Bugaj was born on October 2, 1924 to Steve and Hedwig Bugaj at home in Chappell Hill, TX. He is survived by his brother, Steve Bugaj and wife, Frances of Houston, his sister Elizabeth Tarnowski of Somerville, TX and sister-in-law Emily Bugaj of Houston. He was an uncle to 18 nieces and 9 nephews along with many great nieces and nephews. Ernest was one of ten siblings, most of which have preceded him in death: Walter, Chester, Max, Frank (twin brother), Regina, Natalie and Angelina.

Ernest married his wife, Barbara Baranowski, in November 1948. They were married 71 years and lived happily ever after in the Heights until Barbara’s death in May of this year. Ernest worked for and retired from American Can Company. Ernest and Barbara Bugaj were longtime members of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, where they attended daily Mass most of their lives. Ernest actively worked in the St. Rose Food Pantry. He was a member of the Men’s Club and the Knight of Columbus Council 2917. He also participated in the neighborhood VFW Chapter.

However, Ernest’s happiest times were spent hunting and fishing with his family and friends. His outdoor stories will be greatly missed and he had many adventures to reminisce about. Ernest looked forward to the holidays, loved spending time with the little ones whom he deeply adored, and playing a game of cards or a game of 42.

Last but not least, Ernest Bugaj served the United States of America in World War II. He was a fighter pilot in the Air Force and flew a B-24 plane called The Silver Witch. He flew 69 missions in 89 days and was shot down over Nazi Germany and taken prisoner. He escaped from a prisoner of war camp. His bravery and military skills have spilled over into the lives of his family and friends. His patriotism has been a wonderful example to all who knew him. He will be honored with a military burial.

The family would like to take this opportunity to thank Loretta Kirkpatrick and Melanie Geis for the loving assistance they gave to Ernest and to his “sweet wife” Barbara.

Ernest will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Pallbearers will be Tim Baranowski, Dennis Bugaj, Michael Bugaj, Jimmy Bugaj, Greg Tarnowski, Jake Baranowski, Daniel Baranowski, Brett Baranowski, Chance Marek and Chad Marek.