Edward J. Bougie died Friday, March 31, 2023, at St. Mary's Hospital in Green Bay. The eldest son of Joseph and Rose (VandenHeuvel) Bougie, he was born October 2, 1929, on the family farm in Wrightstown.

Prior to a brief stay at Renaissance Assisted Living, Edward lived with his wife of 72 years in the home they built in De Pere. His gardening skills were legendary: growing corn, peas, beans, asparagus, raspberries, strawberries, cucumbers, tomatoes, other vegetables, and the occasional "experiment" that he freely shared with family and neighbors.

He received his elementary education at St. Paul's Grade School in Wrightstown. The family moved to De Pere so Edward could attend St. Norbert High School as a day student, graduating in 1947. He also attended St. Norbert College. When union-management strife loomed, he took a welding class to expand his skill set.

Edward was devoted to his wife and family; loyal to his employer, working for 44 years printing food packaging at Milprint, Inc.; and a true citizen, studying the news so he could cast an informed ballot in every election. Edward lived his faith. He instilled a strong work ethic, the difference between right and wrong, and respect for education in his children. Edward could fix anything, modeling service to others through building and home repair projects large and small. He was an accomplished carpenter, who made stools, tables, lamps, bird houses, clocks, and whirligigs.

Edward is survived by his seven children: Linda (James) O'Keefe, Thomas (Kristin) Bougie, Debra Bougie (Jeffrey Geisler), David Bougie, Michael (Kris) Bougie, Annette (Jeffrey) Look, and Paul (Rebecca) Bougie, 16 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Edward is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law Clifford and Shirley Bougie; sister Mary Krautkramer; sisters-in-law Christine Bougie and Kate Riordan Bertrand; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his wife Mary, whom he married on April 22, 1950, as well as his parents, brothers Vernon (Kay) and J. Lawrence (Larry) Bougie, sister Betty (Gary) Bellin, brother-in-law Jack Krautkramer, father and mother-in-law Leo and Josephine Bertrand, and other relatives and friends.

As the family grieves the passing of both parents just 89 days apart, we hold joyful memories of growing up: learning our math facts through cribbage, taking bike rides for ice cream sundaes, and enjoying spirited competition through bowling, ping pong, croquet, sheepshead, and bridge. We will remember the war on squirrels you shared with our dog Buffy and many family reunions, vacations, and other adventures. Dad, while we are sad that you are no longer with us, we are so happy you and mom will celebrate your wedding anniversary together.

Family and friends may call at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Family, 1307 Lourdes Avenue, De Pere, on Saturday, April 15, 2023. Visitation starts at 9 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m., Fr. James Baraniak O.Praem. officiating.