John J Buenzli

To know John was to know a man of strength and genuine decency. Beneath a rough exterior was a generous spirit—he showed up when it mattered, with tools in hand, a home-cooked dish, or flowers from his garden. He cared for people, whether lending a hand, cracking a joke, or simply being there.

Born May 19, 1956, in Olympia, Washington, John was the youngest of five children of Clement (Clay) J. Buenzli and Alice E. Lahm. He attended St. Michael Parish School in Olympia, WA, Holy Trinity Roman Catholic School in Dunkirk, NY, and graduated in 1974 from Cardinal Mindzenty High School in Dunkirk, NY. He later studied forestry at the State University of New York at Alfred.

A skilled craftsman with a tireless work ethic, John started his own business as a general contractor in 1987 and worked in residential repair and remodeling until retiring in 2021. A perfectionist in his carpentry, he took deep pride in doing a job right and without delay.

He brought the same care to his personal life, tending his home, rose beds, and vegetable garden with pride. He also had a passion for classic cars, especially his 1971 Buick Skylark, and loved the camaraderie of car shows with fellow enthusiasts. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and target shooting—pastimes that rewarded his matchless energy.

In 2023, John suffered a stroke that profoundly affected his life. Though he showed few visible signs of disability, he lived in constant pain and faced significant emotional and cognitive challenges. Many remarked how well he looked, but few saw the invisible weight he carried. Despite this, he met each day with determination.

John will be remembered as loyal, generous, funny, and always willing to lend a hand. Above all, he loved his wife, Michelle. They were married on August 18, 1990, and shared 34 years of partnership, laughter, and love.

He is survived by his wife, Michelle; siblings Eugenie Briggs (Peter), Robert Buenzli (Nancy), James Buenzli (Betsy), and Mary Wallace; and many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clement and Alice.