Lucian S. "Butch" Budnik 1920-2008

Lucian S. "Butch" Budnik, 88, of New Britain died Friday, (December 12, 2008) at home. Lucian was born in New Britain and was the son of the late Stanley and Judith (Sapkowski) Budnik. He was the owner and operator of The Den Cafe, New Britain for 37 years.

Lucian served his country honorably during World War II with the U. S. Navy. He served as a FN2nd class aboard the USS DeHaven DD-469 and survived the sinking off Savo Island near Guadalcanal on Feb 1, 1943.

He was a member of Sacred Heart Church and the V.F.W., both of New Britain. Lucian is survived by his son, Peter Budnik and his wife, Patsy; his daughter, Judith Brochu and her husband, Donald, all of Burlington; his brother, Edward Budnik and his wife Lucy of New Britain; two sisters, Helen Mrozowski and her husband, Chester of Rockfall and Sophie Kardok of New Britain; five grandchildren, Amy, Jill, Brian, Ben and Adam; three great grandchildren, Benjamin, Abigail and Avery, and several nieces and nephews. Lucian was predeceased by his wife, Sallie Budnik, his brother, Henry Budnik and sister, Ceil Simonovich.