Jay was born on Sunday, April 28, 1940 to the late Helen Margie (Kruass) and Justus Leonard Bugia in Traverse City. He attended and graduated from Traverse City Schools. He worked as a welder, and later worked in construction and was known as an amazing builder. In recent years, Julius was a custom butcher, which he thoroughly enjoyed.

Being one who preferred to be in the out of doors, Jay enjoyed gardening, fishing and hunting. He enjoyed Cheyenne cigars and was an avid fan of chocolate milk, chocolate cake with chocolate frosting, and maybe even some chocolate syrup over the top! His family will always remember him as an extremely kind man with a huge heart.

Jay is survived by his best friend and buddy, Squirt, his children, Penny (Bob) Hall of Michigan , Martin Bugia of Wisconsin, his grandchildren, Darian(Cameron) Weaver of Michigan , Margaret Hall of Michigan. Sophia Bugia,Austin Bugia-Edwards, And numerous great grand children

Preceded in death by parents Ron and Julia Bugia

You will forever be missed by all.

A time to visit and gather with Julius' family will take place at The Bugia Family Home from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Friday March, 27 2026.