Bradley Alan Bucher

Brad was born on December 17th, 1942 in East Orange, New Jersey to Caroline and Eldon Bucher Sr.. He quickly made his way to Houston where, he graduated from both Belaire High School and Rice University. While at Rice, Brad met the love of his life Leslie (Johnson), and they just missed celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary together.

A serial entrepreneur and patent holder, Brad started and sold several companies and continued working until his final days. His success allowed him to patron his passion for the arts, supporting the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, where he was honored as a Lifetime Trustee, the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, the Menil Collection, the Glassell School of Art, and the Moody Center for Arts at his alma mater Rice University. Not just a financial patron, he dedicated his time and wisdom by serving on the Board of Directors for MFAH, CAMH, Arts Alliance Houston, Roden Crater Skystone Foundation, Houston Center for Contemporary Crafts, and many more. He leaves behind a legacy of work for the arts that will be enjoyed for generations.

Known not only for his freely given smile, but also for his athleticism, Brad loved the sport of basketball. At Rice he played for the Freshman team, at home he shot hoops in the driveway with his sons, and later in life he would sneak off in the evenings and referee local high school games. His joy for life was infectious and he was always mistaken for someone much younger than his actual age.

Being born on December 17th, Christmas was his favorite time of the year. From setting up elaborate Dicken’s Villages, to hiding presents under the tree, Brad embraced the holiday season. Christmas lights will not appear as bright, while his laughter and joy at the dinner table will be fondly missed.

Brad was a husband, father, and devoted poppy (grandfather). He is survived by his wife Leslie, two sons Glen (Olga Zuiak) and James (Kathleen), and daughter-in-law Cordelia Kobus, six grandchildren Scot, Colette, Marie, Michael, JJ, and Nina, and his sister Judy Bucher and brother Dennis (Jody) Bucher. He was preceded in death by his parents, Caroline and Eldon Bucher Sr., and brothers James Bucher and Eldon Bucher Jr..

As per Brad’s wishes he will be cremated and a tree will be planted on Buffalo Bayou near where he would walk his dog Muffin, all of them, every day. No public reception is planned.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Glassell School of Art at the Museum of Fine Arts, The Moody Center for the Arts at Rice University, the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, or your favorite arts organization.