Edward W. Milsted, Jr. (Bud) at the age of 96, left this world and entered the gates of Heaven on August 20, 2023.  He was born in Big Lake, La., on May 7, 1927, in the family home, to Edward W. Milsted, Sr. (Eddie) and Olivia (LeBleu) Milsted.  Bud was welcomed into Heaven by his “little bride” of 66 years, Betty J. (Cooley) Milsted, his parents and his older brother Joseph (Joe) Ray Milsted.   

At the age of 17, he joined the United States Navy and served in WWII.  Bud was very proud to be a Seabee and served in the South Pacific.  Once home, he began farming with his father and shortly thereafter was drafted for the Korean War where he served “one year, three months, and 11 days in the snow and ice” as he liked to tell everyone. In 1953, Bud married “his little bride”, Betty. He made a living as a carpenter, building their home and many others in the Lake Charles area.  He took great pride in his work and he was a member of the Carpenter’s Local Union.  

Throughout their life together Bud and Betty enjoyed raising a family, attending church, and traveling and camping with their friends.  Also, most Friday nights Bud and Betty could be found around a table playing SkipBo with friends.  He was a member of Boulevard Baptist Church for many years and then Friendship Baptist Church. 

Bud leaves behind two daughters, Donna Whatley (Gary) and Sue Demarie (Mike).  Grandchildren Collin Whatley (Jeanne), Danita Demarie Geisleman (Cliff), Chris Demarie (Mary), and Amy Demarie (fiancé Heath Johnson).  Great grandchildren Adeline Whatley (coming soon), Canyon, Bella, and Sophia Geisleman and Brennan and Allie Demarie. Bud was a regular at both Southern Spice and Big Daddy’s his favorite local restaurants. If asked why he was wearing a jacket during the hot summer months, he would respond, “I have never warmed up since Korea.”  He always had a joke, funny saying or story and a quick wit, until the very end.  Bud touched the hearts of all who were blessed by his friendship.  Each night at bedtime dad would announce “I think I’ll go press the sheets.”  Well Daddy, you have pressed the sheets for the last time. 

Visitation will be Wednesday, August 23, 2023, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m.at Johnson Funeral Home, 4321 Lake St., Lake Charles, LA. 70605.  Visitation will resume Thursday at 12 p.m. noon until service time.  Funeral services will be at 2 p.m., Thursday, August 24, 2023 also at Johnson Funeral Home.  Burial and Military Graveside Rites will follow services at Highland Memory Garden Cemetery.