Joseph Patrick Bolger Jr.

Joseph Patrick “Bud” Bolger, Jr., 91, of Carmel, IN passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family in the home he and Peg built together more than 50 years ago, on Sunday, March 23, 2025. He was born June 21, 1933, in Chicago, IL to Joseph Patrick Sr. and Marie Benita (Coffey) Bolger.

In his younger elementary years, Bud attended Our Lady of Sorrows. He was a graduate of Saint Phillips High School and attended Wright College. Bud was a veteran of the US Air Force, where he served from 1952-1956. His duty included serving in the Korean War and Guam, specializing in Cryptography.

On November 6, 1954, Bud married his sweetheart, Margaret (Peg) Wooley. Together they were blessed with six children and raised them in the strong Catholic Faith. Bud left the legacy and was an example of working hard with a strong work ethic.

Bud worked in professional sales for several years with S&H Green Stamps. In 1973, he was awarded Salesman of the Year. His memberships included the Carmel VFW Post # 10003, Carmel American Legion #155, and the Knights of Columbus.

As a sports enthusiast, Bud also coached his sons little league baseball team in Richfield, Minnesota, taking them to championship 3 years in a row from 1968-1971. Bud appreciated reading and studying history.  God gifted him with a beautiful singing voice, especially as an Irish tenor.

In addition to his parents, Bud was preceded in death by his son, Joseph Patrick Bolger, III “Buddy” and daughter, Karen Marie Bolger; brothers, Barney (Joan) Bolger and Tommy Bolger; and sisters, Patsy (Jim) Sramek and Mary Kay (Don) Cullerton.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 70 years, Margaret “Peg”; children, Coleen, Stephen, Keith (Shirley), and Kitty (Guy); 9 grandchildren, Kelly, Sheila (Shane), Scott (Kat), Allison, Meghan (Sean), Riley, Kelsey, Joe, and Kaitlyn; and 6 great-grandchildren, Anna, Maura (Ben), Kelton, Kade, Owen, and Calvin.

There are no services currently scheduled at this time.

The family would like to express their appreciation and a special thank you to the care givers, Tammy, Lynna, and Jojo, for the love and care given to Bud, Peg, and the entire family.

In memory of Bud, contributions may be given to Little Sisters of the Poor, 2345 W 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46260 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Bussell Family Funerals is privileged to assist the family with arrangements.

Irish Blessing

May the road rise up to meet you,

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sunshine warm upon your face, And rains fall soft upon your fields, 

And until we meet again May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.

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