Michael J. Bugler, 68, of Rockford, Illinois passed away March 5, 2019, at his home.

Michael was born September 8, 1950 in Kansas City, Missouri to Mary and Richard Bugler. The family moved to Des Moines, Iowa when Michael was a young man.

Michael graduated from Loras College, cum laude, Dubuque, Iowa with a B.A. in History. In the mid-1970s he began a successful graphic arts career in Rockford and later started his own business, Bugler Design. Michael lived and worked in Rockford for 30-plus years, where he designed logos, brochures and much more for many businesses and not-for-profits.

He was extremely active in the community, donating his time and talents to his favorite charitable organizations. His generous heart for service made him many close friends; they became like a second family to him. Throughout his life Mike’s active imagination and quick-witted humor endeared him to family and friends. He was a talented artist who created delightful works that he often displayed in Rockford-area shows.

Michael is survived by his mother, Mary, nine younger siblings: Rebecca (Dave) Valentine, Mark (Cindy Schmitt), James (Kristin), Donald, Daniel (Julia Melkers), John (Karin), Thomas (Beth), Timothy, Ann (Paul Jewell) and numerous nieces/nephews and great nieces/nephews.

Visitation will be on Saturday, March 23, 9-11 a.m., Fitzgerald Funeral Home, 3910 N. Rockton, with a celebration of Michael’s life at 11 a.m. Memorials may be made to the Natural Land Institute or the Friends of the Coronado. The family is deeply grateful to the many friends who helped Michael during his illness, particularly Ryan Weiland and Gary Carlson.