Dr. Edward James Bugden

State College - Dr. Edward "Ed" J. Bugden of State College, PA passed away peacefully on September 12th, 2025, at Centre Care Nursing Facility in State College, surrounded by his wife and children. Ed was born on August 11, 1940, in Carmen, PA. He was the son of the late Anthony James Bugden and Lena Agnes Bugden (Lapinsky). He is survived by his wife, Barbara Bugden; his children Jane Bugden, Jim Bugden, Rich Bugden (Katherine), and Michelle Carr (Derek); and his grandchildren Mike Bugden, Jerry Bugden, Ava Carr, Nick Carr, and Charlie Carr.

Ed spent his formative years growing up on Cardott St. in Ridgway, PA where he attended St. Leo School and graduated from Ridgway Area High School in 1958. He received his Bachelor of Science from the University at Buffalo and his DMD from the University of Pittsburgh. Upon graduating, he joined the Air Force and was stationed at Lorning Air Force Base in Caribou, Maine. Following his service, he and his family moved to Ridgway, PA where he began his own dental practice. He was an active member of the community, serving as Ridgway Area Little League President, President of the Ridgway Area School District Board of Directors, Treasurer of the Elk County Country Club, and an active member of the Laurel Rod and Gun Club at Camp Croyland. He retired in State College to be with his family.

Throughout his life, he was active in the Catholic Church, serving as both a Lay Minister and Eucharistic Minister. Ed enjoyed spending time outdoors hunting and when younger, made several trips to Canada in search of big game. He also loved following the Pittsburgh Pirates and was an avid Buffalo Bills fan. He created many fond memories with his family while attending Bill's games and waiting for their first Super Bowl win. He held on as long as he could waiting for that elusive victory… maybe this is the year! He was a lifelong student of American military history and a voracious reader of both sports and history. Ed also loved playing (and always won) Trivial Pursuit.

Ed's family will spread his ashes near Laurel Run and Croyland in the woods and streams he explored as a child and loved throughout his life.

The family wishes to thank Ed's many caregivers from the Centre Care Skilled Nursing Facility and the nurses, aides, and volunteers from Grane Hospice Care.

In memory of his love for his many pet cats and dogs, if you wish to honor Ed's memory, please consider a contribution to Centre County PAWS (https://www.centrecounty- paws.org/donate).