Michael Thomas Bucher

Michael Thomas Bucher, 76, of West Lafayette, passed away on Monday, October 26, 2026, at home surrounded by family. He was born November 13, 1949, in Francesville, Indiana, to the late Leslie and Florence (Gutwein) Bucher.
He was a graduate of Francesville High School. Shortly after graduation, Michael enlisted in the United States Air Force. After training as an Air Force Freight Specialist, he was deployed to An Khe Army Airfield, South Vietnam, in 1968-69. Prior to deployment, he married his high school sweetheart, Della Ann Holman, in Reno, Nevada, on June 8, 1968. After his Air Force service, they built a life together in Lafayette, Indiana, quite literally. Michael was the accomplished and resourceful builder of their family home in the woods. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, and tinkering endlessly in his garage or shop.
Michael was a dedicated, hardworking employee at Eli Lilly (Tippe Labs) from 1973 to 1998. His early retirement allowed him and Della to enjoy time together in Florida before returning to Indiana to be near family. He was known by many for his ability to fix anything and for abruptly singing if something you said reminded him of a song. More importantly, he was a selfless, loving husband of 57 years, an incredible role model for his children and grandchildren, a gracious mentor to family and friends, and a cherished child of God.
Michael was a strong, steady, and quiet example of dependence on God. Always learning, always growing, and always humble, he enjoyed sharing his faith and generously supported others doing the same.
He is survived by his wife, Della; his children, Dawn (Frank) Oliver, Jeremy (Jacqueline) Bucher; grandchildren, Chad Bucher, Benjamin Bucher, Jordan (Tyler) Love, James (April) Oliver, Ethan Oliver, Kristen (Dave) Drake, and Austin (Brittany) Oliver; Siblings, Laurel (Bing) Hare, Roxanne (Tom) Burghardt. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Bill Bucher.
Memorial contributions in Michael’s name may be given to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PANCAN).

Memorial visitation will be from 2 pm until the time of service at 4 pm Sunday, November 8, 2026, at Soller-Baker, Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Boulevard, Lafayette, Indiana 47909.