Clare, MI - Dr. Alan Francis Bugai, aged 64, of Clare, Michigan, passed away on February 27, 2026, in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan at the Woodland Hospice House. Born on July 26, 1961, in Traverse City, Alan was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who brought joy and laughter to all who knew him.
Alan graduated from Traverse City High School in 1979 and went on to earn a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Sherman College of Chiropractic. He dedicated his life to his profession as a chiropractor, serving his community for 35 years as the owner and operator of Alpha Chiropractic Clinic in Clare, Michigan, where he was respected for his commitment to healing and pursuit of excellence in chiropractic care.
A man of deep faith, Alan was a member of Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church for 40 years. His strong beliefs were reflected in his daily life and service to his community. His faith in God and love for his family got him through dark and difficult times, including open heart surgeries, a broken back and broken knees, and bouts of depression. In spite of his struggles, he lived a long and productive life full of major accomplishments, memorable adventures, and enriching days and nights spent with his family and friends.
Alan was a passionate outdoorsman, often embarking on big game hunting trips. He was a member of Safari Club International and owned a white tail deer farm for 20 years. He loved playing cards, attending family card parties, and was known for his love of music. He hosted the family reunions "Cuzstock" at his home, creating lasting memories for his family and friends.
He leaves behind his loving wife, Judith (McNabb) Bugai, to whom he was married since December 28, 1985; his sons, Joshua (Lacy) Bugai, Caleb Bugai, and Jordan (Gabii) Bugai; granddaughters, Scarlett Anderson, Margaret Bugai, and Ayssa Maurer; siblings, Jennifer Sepell, Jean Anne (Gary) Henning, Mary Lee (Kevin) Keenan, and Scott (Lisa) Bugai; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Alan was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Mary Bugai; sister, Yvonne Michaels; father-in-law, James McNabb; and nephews, Thomas Bugai and Steven Cosgrove.
Services to honor Alan's life will commence with a visitation on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at Life Story Funeral Home in Traverse City, from 4-6 pm followed by the Divine Mercy at 6 pm. On Wednesday, March 4, 2026, visitation will continue at Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home in Clare from 4-7 pm with a rosary at 7 pm. Mass from the Order of Christian Funerals will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church in Clare at 11:00 am with visitation from 10-11 am. Alan will be laid to rest at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in Lake Leelanau at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Woodland Hospice House or Smile Train.
Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Ludington, www.GraceCremations.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Alan, please visit our floral store.
Clare, MI - Dr. Alan Francis Bugai, aged 64, of Clare, Michigan, passed away on February 27, 2026, in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan at the Woodland Hospice House. Born on July 26, 1961, in Traverse City, Alan was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who brought joy and laughter to all who knew him.
Alan graduated from Traverse City High Sch
Published on March 3, 2026
In Memory of Dr. Alan Francis Bugai