William John Budagher

What do you say about William J. Budagher? He was a character and by far the best storyteller we've ever met.

He was born May 27, 1925, in Peña Blanca, New Mexico, and grew up in Domingo, New Mexico. He passed peacefully at 101 on September 2, 2026, as the last surviving child of Lebanese immigrant Joseph Budagher.

William lived a very big, beautiful life! He had encounters with John Dillinger and Rin Tin Tin. He fought bravely for his country as an Army Infantryman in the 95th Infantry Division, the 377th Regiment, fighting at Utah Beach, in the second wave of D-Day and in the battle to liberate Metz in France and later in the Battle of the Bulge in Belgium, and in Germany during World War II, earning the Purple Heart and a Bronze Star, among other honors. 

He spent three years in Mexico as a cattle inspector, was a Foreman ironworker, served as president of the Ironworkers union, sold hamburgers at fiestas, loved trading Native American treasures, and at one time had the largest Christmas tree business in New Mexico.  

But more importantly, he was a family man. He worked hard and expected a lot out of us, and we are better for it. He truly loved his family so deeply!

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Salior "Sallie"; siblings John (Bavita), George (Jacqulyn), Saith (Polly), Rose (Billy), Mary (James), Robert, and Emma (Shafie); and his wife, Dorthey, who passed away on April 17, 2025. Dorthey was also the last surviving child of Owen and Martha, who preceded her in death, along with 11 siblings.

William and Dorthey are survived by their four children, Renee (Larry), William (Joanie), Michael (Sheril), and Bruce (Chris); eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson.

William, Billy, Dad, Pops, and Grandpa-you left a big legacy to continue. You are missed!

In William's honor, please wear your finest Native American jewelry. 

A Rosary will be recited on Friday, September 18, 2026, at 9:30 am, at Queen of Heaven Catholic Church located at 5310 Claremont Ave NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87110. Mass of a Christian Burial will follow at 10:00 am. 

Inurnment will take place on Friday November 27, 2026, at 2:45 pm at Santa Fe National Cemetery. Santa Fe National Cemetery is located at 501 N Guadalupe St., Santa Fe 87501. 

Honorary pallbearers are Garett, Samuel, Alex, Patrick, Cole, Daniel, and Andy.