Lawrence Bukovich Obituary

Mr. Lawrence J. Bukovich, 97, passed away in his daughter's home, Friday, September 29, 2023. Mr. Bukovich was born in 1926 to Olga and Paul Bukovich, migrants from Yugoslavia who came through Ellis Island in the early 1900s. Olga became a U. S. citizen in 1943. As a teenager, Lawrence worked alongside his father in the coal mines of West Virginia. Lawrence was injured at 16 years of age when a slate from the coal mine fell on his leg causing a compound fracture. Lawrence proudly served in the United States Army in World War II. A few months after entering the U. S. Army his father was fatally injured in a coal mine collapse. After Lawrence completed his tour of duty, he was Honorably Discharged during Demobilization with a Good Conduct Medal, the American Theatre Service Medal, and the Victory Medal. Afterwards, Lawrence began working as a floor sweeper with a then startup company, National Wire, and diligently and loyally worked his way up to plant superintendent with many responsibilities including the opening of new facilities for National Wire, until he retired. He was a dependable, conscientious worker, and a loving father and dad, whose pride was in providing for his family. In 2022, during Lawrence's final years, he moved to Lynn Haven where his daughter, Carolyn, could continue his hospice care in her home until his passing. Carolyn was with him until he took his last breath. Lawrence was an honorable man. Mr. Bukovich was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife of 53 years, Mathalee Bukovich; his son, Larry N. Bukovich; his youngest daughter, Betty Bukovich; his parents and his siblings; among many, many other relatives and friends. He is survived by two daughters, Gloria P. Hord (Dr. Jim Hord) and Carolyn Basham (Benny Basham) both of Lynn Haven, FL; 10 grandchildren, 12 great- grandchildren, two great great- grandchildren; and a dear sister-in law, Maxine Wagner of Baltimore, MD. A Graveside Service will be held at 10:00 a. m. , Friday, October 13, 2023 at Lynn Haven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Covenant Hospice in Panama City, FL in memory of Mr. Bukovich.