Karen Salmon Bugler

Karen Salmon Bugler, 73, of Bedford, NH died December 14, 2024 at Bowman Place, surrounded in the arms of her loving family, after a courageous fight against Alzheimer’s disease.

Born in Newton, MA on May 24, 1951, she was the daughter of the late Mary (Smith) Bader and Robert Salmon. Karen was a graduate of Keene High School. She placed great importance in education, with one of her greatest accomplishments having earned her Master’s degree in education from the University of Hawaii. She married the love of her life, Dave, in 1970 and they lived in Hawaii, where they raised their family. She was passionate about her long career in social services and social work. She also owned a jewelry business for many years named Fancy Nina (a nickname given to her by her granddaughters, Ryan and Payton).

Karen loved to travel, the sunshine and Hawaii was her favorite place. She also enjoyed Broadway Theater and West Side Story was her favorite musical. Karen also enjoyed interior decorating, politics, manatees, black coffee and cold beer. Although she loved singing and thought she had a beautiful opera voice, she actually had a terrible voice and couldn’t hold a note. She did however, have eclectic taste in music, including Bruno Mars, Steely Dan, The Eagles, Earth Wind & Fire and Sade.

Although Karen was passionate about many things, there was nothing in the world more important to her than time spent with Dave and her family. Above all else, Karen will be remembered as a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend.

Family includes her husband of 54 years, David R. Bugler of Manchester, NH; one daughter, Heather A. Moran and husband Jeff of Manchester, NH; one son, Kevin D. Bugler and wife Josina Gaco of Hawaii; five grandchildren, Ryan Moran, Payton Moran, Josh Bugler, Ricki-Kaleikila-Velleses and husband Alika, and Colton Gaco; and four siblings, Nancy Papadopoulos and husband John, Lisa Foran and husband Joe, Betsy Moul and husband Tom, and Amy Pitera and husband Mark. Karen was predeceased by both of her parents.

Dave and Heather would like to thank the staff of Bowman Place in Bedford and Bayada Hospice for the loving care and compassion that they provided.

SERVICES: There are no calling hours. A Private Ceremony will be held for the immediate family. A Celebration of Karen’s Life will take place in the summer. Lambert Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements. Donations in Karen’s memory may be made to Bayada Hospice, 22 Bridge Street, Suite 7, Concord, NH, 03301 or at www.bayada.com/support.