Charles John Bacigalupi

Charles John Bacigalupi, 74, passed from this life into eternal life on Friday, December 12, 2025, unexpectedly.

Charlie was a devoted husband, father, brother, and friend whose warmth, humor, and curiosity touched everyone who knew him. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 41 years, Helen Lui; his beloved daughter, Michelle Bacigalupi, both of Davis, CA; and his sister, Marie Bacigalupi of Louisville, KY.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Aileen Elizabeth Knop, RN, and John Bernard Bacigalupi, both of Louisville, KY.

Born on April 1, 1951, in Louisville, KY, Charlie spent his early years there, forming the strong roots and values that guided him throughout his life. He graduated from Trinity High School in 1969 and Berea College in 1973, where he earned a BA in American History and Physical Education. He played basketball as a center for both schools—something he always remembered with pride—and even spent summers chaperoning students traveling to France, sharing his love of learning and adventure.

Charlie was truly a lifelong learner. Whether through formal study at the University of Kentucky and Florida Atlantic University or through his own curiosity, he was always eager to grow, explore, and understand the world more deeply.

After college, Charlie served his country in the U.S. Navy, completing eight years of active duty, including time in Japan and Hong Kong. He later continued his service in the Navy Reserve, retiring after 26 years.

Charlie and Helen built a life together in Lexington, KY, and Miami, FL, before settling in Davis, CA, where they made their home for over three decades. Throughout his career, Charlie worked as a cost accountant in the steel building products and agriculture industries, bringing diligence and integrity to everything he did.

Beyond his work, Charlie embraced life fully. He loved traveling the world, especially when sharing those experiences with Helen and Michelle. Music was one of his great joys—he played the guitar, piano, flute, saxophone, and ukulele—and he delighted in learning new languages, including Russian, Spanish, Japanese, French and Cantonese. His sense of humor, playful spirit, and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on everyone around him.

Above all, Charlie cherished his family. The memories he created—with laughter, music, and love—will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A burial ceremony will be held at Davis Cemetery, 820 Pole Line Road, Davis, CA 95618, on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.