Michael Patrick Hughes

Feb 13, 1955 -

Apr 7, 2024

Michael Patrick Hughes, 69, lived for decades in the foothills of the Chugach Mountains overlooking Anchorage, spending his final years in Eagle River, Alaska.

Coming to Alaska with the military in the mid-1970s, Hughes worked in marketing and restaurants, finding success in both trades. He was an enthusiastic member of opera and political organizations, naturally rising to leadership positions. He was an active figure in the social and political circles of downtown Anchorage.

Throughout the years, however, he remained haunted by a spiritual longing that left him unfulfilled. In Catholicism Hughes found meaning, depth and salvation. He attributed the late Jesuit Father Vincent Beuzer and Sister Loretta Luecke of the Sisters of the Most Precious Blood with the spiritual and logistical guidance which formed his second half of life, largely defined by his Catholic faith.

As Brother Bruno, he took on the patronage of Saint Bruno and devoted years to contemplative life. Hughes remained perennially open to God's next act, so to speak, in the dramatic turns of his life which he couldn't have predicted. Gone was the rebellion and flamboyance, replaced with docility, obedience and peace.

Memorial contributions can be directed to Blessed Sacrament Monastery, Holy Rosary Academy or Saint Therese's Camp.

A funeral Mass will be offered at Saint Patrick's Parish, 2111 Muldoon Road in Anchorage on April 26, 2024, at 4 p.m., followed by a reception. All are welcome.