David Paul Bucher, Sr.

David Paul Bucher Sr., who went by Paul to everyone lucky enough to know him, lived life with an engine always running and a heart wide open. Born on January 21, 1960, Paul possessed a vibrant energy that drew people in. He was the kind of man who greeted strangers like old friends, sought out new experiences, and approached every day as another adventure waiting to happen.

Paul was always a daredevil. From skateboarding down a mountain freeway, to jumping over cars on his roller-skates, to exploring the desert on his motorcycle, Paul’s greatest joys were always found on wheels. All this thrill-seeking helped him to understand the fragility of human life; at the local geothermal power plant where Paul eventually found himself as an operator, he began reading safety regulations and stepping in to make sure his friends and colleagues stayed safe on the job. What started informally soon became his role as Safety Coordinator, the first dedicated safety-role at the plant. While he never lost his adventurous streak, his genuine care for keeping people safe was the driver of his career.

In 2023, Paul made the move from Imperial, California to Litchfield Park, Arizona. He came to be near his son and a grandson who was on the way, and while he happily fell in love with the state, nothing was ever more important to him than his people. Whether he was exploring new trails or spending time at home, Paul’s true north was always family. He thought he loved his wife and son most, but then his grandson arrived and things changed. Ismael quickly became his newest and favorite adventure.

Paul is survived by his loving wife, Dona; his mother, Ardonna; his brothers, Neil, Chuck, and Allen; his son, David, and daughter-in-law, Sanjida; and his grandson, Ismael. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, miles well ridden, and a reminder to live boldly while looking out for those riding beside you.

Though Paul has closed the final chapter of his journey, his spirit will continue to ride on in the stories shared, the lessons taught, and the love he left everywhere he went.