Albert Lee Bucher

Albert Lee Bucher, 74, passed away peacefully at home on July 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Albert was born on January 1, 1952, in Canton, Illinois, to Isaac and Ferne (Kessler) Bucher. He grew up in Summum, Illinois, and graduated from Astoria High School. On June 30, 1973, he married Marsha Shields, and together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and the comfort of knowing they would always be there for one another.

Albert was a carpenter by trade, and if something was broken, chances are he could fix it. He loved working with his hands and believed in doing a job well. Albert was dependable, kind, and one of the hardest-working people anyone could hope to know.
He never wanted to waste a day by being idle.

When he wasn't working, Albert enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved being outside, taking care of his yard, and spending time fishing in the pond that he proudly built. He poured countless hours of time and effort into his property, and it brought him endless enjoyment.

Of all the roles Albert held throughout his life, none brought him greater happiness than being a grandpa. Grafton, Avery, Marshall, and Bennett brought him more joy than anything else. He loved taking them on four-wheeler rides, having pillow fights, playing games, teaching them to fish, or simply joining in whatever adventure they dreamed up. He treasured every moment with them. His grandchildren knew they were deeply loved, and those memories will remain among their greatest gifts.

Albert had an ornery streak that everyone loved. He enjoyed teasing the people closest to him, making them laugh, and reminding everyone not to take life too seriously. Behind that side of him was a man of quiet strength, kindness, and unwavering dependability. No matter what life brought, his children always knew they could count on him. He believed his children could figure out just about anything, and he was always ready to help when they needed him. More than anything, Albert made his children feel happy, cared for, and deeply loved.

Albert is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Marsha Bucher; his daughter, April Bucher Hoffmeister; his son, Aaron (Bailey) Bucher; his beloved grandchildren, Grafton and Avery Hoffmeister, and Marshall and Bennett Bucher; his brother, Robert Bucher; his sisters, Alice Clanin and Carolyn Bricker; along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Isaac and Ferne Bucher, and his brothers, Willie Bucher, Jim Bucher, and Tom Bucher.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at Astoria Cemetery in Astoria, Illinois. Pastor Tyler Watson will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Astoria Rescue Squad or the Astoria American Legion Post 25.

Albert showed his family that a good life is measured by the people you love, the work you do, and the way you treat others. He lived that example every day. He worked hard, loved his family with all his heart, helped anyone who needed him, and never missed a chance to make someone laugh. His family will carry those lessons with them always, and his love, his laughter, and the example he set will continue to live on in everyone who knew and loved him.