Michael David Bucher was born November 4, 1963, in Sigourney, Iowa, the son of Russell and Helen (Young) Bucher. He grew up in rural South English, graduated from English Valleys High School in 1982, and received his bachelor's degree from Iowa State University. In high school Michael participated in multiple sports and was honored to be chosen to play in the Shrine Bowl. In college he was a member of the Iowa State football team. After college Michael joined the family farming operation and also began working for Baldwin construction and discovered his passion for woodworking. He later started his own business, Bucher Construction, and later, English Valley Woodworks. He especially enjoyed designing and building kitchen cabinetry. Michael was a member of the North English United Methodist Church, Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity, and a member of the Masonic Farmers Lodge. He was an avid golfer and was active in golf league and tournament play. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Michael died from sudden illness on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at the age of 61 years.
Michael is survived by two children Keith (Alicia) Reed of Brunswick, GA, and Trina (Shawn) Hilligas of Badger, MN, and three grandchildren Luna Reed, Talon Hilligas and Wyatt Hilligas. He is also survived by his father Russ Bucher, his sister Deb (Mark) Anderson, his uncle Bob Bucher, his ex-wife Marilyn Bucher, family friend Sarah Frederick, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was proceded in death by his mother, and sister, Sally Bucher Chittick Long, and partner Jan Frederick.
Visitation will be on Tuesday, October 7th from 4pm-7pm at the Powell Funeral Home in North English. A memorial fund has been established for ISU Foundation-Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity Scholarship or Farmers Lodge. Messages and tributes may be left at www.powellfuneralhomes.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
116 W Broad St, North English, IA 52316
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


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