John Buncher Obituary

John Buncher passed away suddenly on Monday, August 18, 2025. John was the beloved husband of Colleen Buncher (Fogarty), loving father of Brian Buncher (deceased), John Brian Buncher (Sara), Shannon Buncher, Michael Buncher (Olivia), and Colleen Block (Michael); cherished grandfather (Gramps) of John August Buncher and Lincoln Buncher; beloved son of Patricia (Vuch) Buncher and the late John Armin Buncher; dear brother of Kate Souders (Mike), Mary Antal (Dave), Michael Buncher (Marta), Mark Buncher (Cathy), Marty Buncher (Becky); treasured family member to many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

John Thomas Buncher was born on June 25, 1956 in St. Louis, MO, son of John A. and Patricia M. Buncher. John grew up in Our Lady of Fatima parish and graduated from De Smet Jesuit High School, and University Missouri-Rolla where he earned his B.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering. John married Colleen (Fogarty) after graduating from UMR on June 8, 1979. Shortly after they moved to St. Paul, MN for John’s job at 3M. John worked at 3M for over 38 years, in a variety of positions and locations before retiring in 2017. John was manager of Resident Engineering for the manufacturing of Scotch and blue painter’s tape in Hutchinson, MN. He finished his career as a Division Engineering manager for AAD/CCD/EMMD at the 3M Headquarters in St. Paul. He earned several 3M corporate and divisional awards, including Chairman’s Environmental Leadership Award.

After retirement, John enjoyed being able to travel to visit family and friends, and pursuing his hobbies of golfing, fishing, and playing the guitar. He was always eager to help his children with projects on their newly purchased homes, from painting and plumbing to electrical and lawncare, he was our expert 24/7 personal contractor. John and Colleen spent winters in Florida, having many extended visits with family along the way. For their 40th wedding anniversary, they revived an annual lake vacation from when the kids were young, which has continued to be a favorite week for his expanded family that now includes his children’s spouses and grandchildren. As our fishing Chairman, John organized excursions, contests, and was always prepared to Captain the boat. His precision cast was often underutilized as he spent his time to bait and prepare our lines, perfectly position the boat, net and unhook our fish, and meticulously measure and document every catch that met the Chairman’s regulations. His tackle box was well stocked, labeled, and organized, ready for every adventure. Countless memories were made and great stories told as we caught up with each other and disconnected from our day-to-day responsibilities. One of his greatest joys was spending time with his grandsons by playing games, roughhousing, mini golfing, and teaching them that the biggest fish is always “the one that got away.”

John’s family takes comfort knowing he is reunited with his dad and son, all participating in Christ’s resurrection. John’s kindness, generosity, and love for his family and friends will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. The family would like to thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and compassion in this time of sorrow. Our wish is that you take the love, joy, and happiness you received from him and spread it to those who touch your life.

A Visitation will be held Sunday, August 24, 4-7pm, at O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 520 11th st. south, Hudson, Wisconsin. The Funeral will be the following day, Monday, August 25, 11am, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1500 Vine St, Hudson, Wisconsin, with a visitation one hour prior.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to De Smet Jesuit High School, the Knights of Columbus, or the charity of your choice.