Michael Lynn Bucher

September 10, 1952 - April 24, 2012
Michael Lynn Bucher

Memorial Gifts & Donations




Michael Lynn Bucher, 59, of Hampstead, NC, died Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at Lower Cape Fear Hospice & LifeCareCenter.

Mike was a family man, first and foremost. His wife, Marie, was the love of his life, and his children, Mike Jr. and Heidi, meant the world to him. He was blessed with two darling grandchildren and died knowing the promise of another one on the way. Although his career led to moves all over the country, the tightness of the family bond meant wherever they went, they were always at home.

The term ‘zest for life’ doesn’t begin to do Mike justice. His exuberance was infectious – everyone around him got caught up in it. He was joy personified, his heart was huge, and he had an amazing generosity of spirit. Everywhere Mike went, from his four years in the Navy, through all of the family moves, he made friendships that stayed with him throughout his lifetime. His humor was legendary, and laughter was his trademark. That remained unchanged even toward the end, when a hospice nurse dubbed him “The Trickster”.

Mike loved nature, running, cycling, classic cars and playing his guitars. He loved music – especially the blues and jazz. He devoted much of his free time to working on the family home, keeping everything in immaculate shape.

It was Mike’s deep love of God that allowed him to remain strong through the devastation of his illness. He was surrounded by the prayers of the many, many people who love him, and prayed for him during his 16 month battle with cancer.

Michael L. Bucher –child of God, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, and mentor – rest in peace. We were blessed to know you.

A memorial service will be held at 12:30 pm Thursday, May 3, 2012 at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church in Hampstead, NC.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Lower Cape Fear Hospice, where memorial contributions may be directed, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401.

Please share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Sign Guest Book” tab above.

Wilmington Funeral and Cremation, 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099


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  • May 19, 2012
    anne karl says:
    Dearest Marie and family, we were shocked, to say the least, to hear about Mike. Lois and I have been trying for weeks to try to reach you. We don't have an address for you. We had a mass said for Mike. and your family at St. Francis. The obituary is a wonderful testament to Mike's life. God bless you - please get in touch when you are able. Love, Anne

  • May 02, 2012
    Mike Fitzpatrick says:
    Being with Mike was always fun. My times with Mike are some of the best I've ever enjoyed. He will be missed.

  • May 02, 2012
    Tricia & Dave Eckert says:
    A beautiful tribute to a man who set an example for all of us by the life he lived. We are blessed to have had him in our lives. Love ~ Tricia & Dave

  • May 02, 2012
    Don and Jeanne McGowan says:
    Our condolence on you loss. Mike was a past work companion for both Jeanne and I. While we were still CIIT Mike and I would sometimes travel together. I have fond memories of sitting with Mike at a Mexican sidewalk cafe in Miami while istening to an outstanding Latino guitar player (as you can imagine, this dinner lasted several hours), countless company events where Mike had us in laughing until our stomachs hurt, dinner with Mike at the Baldwin's and with you Marie and Mike at your home in Ashville. Your (Marie and Mikes) generosity and caring for others so obvious. I'm glad to say Mike was my friend. I'll miss him.

  • May 02, 2012
    Don and Jeanne McGowan says:
    Our condolence on you loss. Mike was a past work companion for both Jeanne and I. While we were still CIIT Mike and I would sometimes travel together. I have fond memories of sitting with Mike at a Mexican sidewalk cafe in Miami while istening to an outstanding Latino guitar player (as you can imagine, this dinner lasted several hours), countless company events where Mike had us in laughing until our stomachs hurt, dinner with Mike at the Baldwin's and with you Marie and Mike at your home in Ashville. Your (Marie and Mikes) generosity and caring for others so obvious. I'm glad to say Mike was my friend. I'll miss him.