Karen Kolpien (Bugaj)

Steve,

My first memories of you are when we were really little. You lived on Academy St. on one side of a house and my friend Cheryl Neckers and her parents lived on the other side. You and Sue Ann and Debbie would be outside playing when Cheryl and I would be. Your dad and mine bowled together. In about 3rd grade I remember you called my house one night and told me you "liked" me and wanted me to be your "girlfriend." I was like, "Ewww! I don't like boys! I don't want a boyfriend," and my mom stood in our kitchen laughing as she thought it was so funny! Years later, you and your wife Melinda were attending my parents' church, and my mom asked me to pray for Melinda as she had cancer. Then, I learned that you were battling it, as both of your sisters have. So unfair. All of you too young to be fighting it. I know you are now free from the pain it caused you, in heaven with a new body free of cancer and pain. Rest in peace. See you when I get there. We have a great grand Westfield, and Class of 79 reunion that will happen one day! Karen Kolpien Bugaj