Howard “Bud” Stellwag

rn Bud knew that we don’t laugh because we’re happy, we’re happy because we laugh. There was never a situation he couldn’t find the humor in. From the days he relentlessly played pranks on his sisters, to when he even had the uncanny ability to cheer up his teenage daughters, he always knew how to bring a smile. He proved that you can’t dislike someone who makes you laugh, especially considering he had so many friends despite being a die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan. When folks met Bud they usually liked him right away, and always came to know his personal philosophy. “The World according to Bud” was simple: Ford trucks, Budweiser beer and Winston cigarettes (before he kicked the habit). Never one for idle hands, he was often found doing woodworking projects. Everything from lamps to grandfather clocks adorn not only his home, but the homes of most of his family.rn While working for a company called Modern Packaging Bud earned more than a paycheck. It was here he met a woman named Betty (nee Weigand). Their 34 year marriage was blessed by their daughters: Sandy Thibault (Joe) of Edgewater Park and Beth Bates (Donald) of Roebling, and again by their grandchildren: Donnie, Jr., Elizabeth, Daniel and Richie. Bud is also survived by his mother Mildred of Lumberton, sisters Barbara Stellwag and Susan Horton, both of Lumberton and his brother Donald (Pat) of Hainesport. rn Come celebrate Bud’s 61 laughter filled years (August 26, 1949-May 3, 2011) Friday from 6-8 PM and Saturday from 9:30 AM at the Sweeney Funeral Home, Riverside, where the service will be at 10:30. Interment St. Peter’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be made to Samaritan Hospice 300 Eves Dr., Suite 300, Marlton, NJ 08053.rn –