Donald R. Bulgarella, age 82, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025. Born in Detroit, Michigan, to the late John and Theresa Bulgarella, Donald grew up with a love for learning and a deep sense of family. He graduated from Denby High School and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from the University of Detroit.
A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Donald served aboard the USS Little Rock, where his service took him around the world, including Spain, Switzerland, and even to the Arctic Circle. His experiences in the Navy shaped his adventurous spirit and lifelong appreciation for history and culture.
Donald had a love for sports, cheering on the Detroit Tigers and Red Wings, and he enjoyed playing softball, golfing, playing cards, and showing off his impressive trivia skills. A fan of the music of the 1950s and 1960s, he found joy in sharing his favorite tunes with his loved ones. Above all, Donald was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, always placing his family at the center of his life.
He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Laurice Bulgarella; his children Michael (Christina) Green; Gina (Pete) Smolenski; Mike (Lauren) Bulgarella; and Dave Bulgarella; and his beloved grandchildren Roman, Alex, Michael, Nicholas, Alexandra, Anthony, and Joseph. Donald is also survived by his brothers Tom Bulgarella and John Bulgarella and was preceded in death by his sister, Diane Frick.
Donald will be remembered for his warm heart, quick wit, and unwavering love for his family. His life was a testament to dedication, kindness, and the joy of simple pleasures.
Visitation for Donald will take place on Thursday, September 4, 2025 from 3:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Resurrection Funeral Home, 40800 Hayes Road in Clinton Township. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025 at 9:30 am at St. Peter Catholic Church, 95 Market Street in Mount Clemens. Friends may visit the church on Friday beginning at 9:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Donald's memory to the American Stroke Association https://www.stroke.org/en/
