Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties
HOWARD, Wis. — James Peter Bugni, 80, passed away on Saturday March 4, 2023, at his home in Howard.
He was born May 23, 1942, to James and Marianne (Celli) Bugni in Ironwood, Michigan, spending most of his youth in Hurley. He graduated from Hurley High School in 1960 and received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Wisconsin State College in Superior.
Jim taught fifth and sixth grades for more than 30 years in Green Bay.
Jim was married to Eileen (Longrie) Bugni for 41 years. He is survived by his wife, Eileen; and his son, James Matthew Bugni; his siblings, Dean (Sheila) of Spooner, Don of New Mexico, Sandy (Gordy) of Wausau, and Peter (Diane) of Eagle River; and many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Susie.
He was an avid sports fan all his life and enjoyed watching the Packers, Brewers and Bucks. He also liked to attend live concerts, his favorites including Elton John and Billy Joel.
Jim was devoted to helping young people outside the classroom including coaching Lions Little League Baseball and being active in the Big Brothers program.
One of Jim’s favorite pastimes was to take his son, Jim, up north to his hunting camp where they enjoyed going through the woods together.
Jim was handed down a love for pet bichons by his mother, and always had one by his side.
A memorial visitation will take place on Monday, March 20, at Pfotenhauer Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Howard-Suamico location, at 1145 Cardinal Lane in Howard, from 11 a.m. to noon. A short prayer service will immediately follow at noon.
Online condolences are welcome at PfotenhauerFuneralHome.com.