Thinking of my Cousin Blaine today, an absolutely beautiful day without a cloud in the sky. When I would visit him in New Orleans on a day like this he would fire up one of his gasoline-powered model airplanes and we would while away the afternoon pretending we were real pilots. Thanks, Blaine, for teaching me how to cover my balsa wood model planes with tissue paper and model airplane dope. You were the best. 

In nomine Patris, Filius, et Spiritus  Sancti

Steve Johnson

I remember every time I walked in the store rather it was for work or to shop at Home Depot we would end up talking just for a few minutes and laugh and joke you were a true friend god bless you my friend I will treasure those memories. you will be missed 

Laura and Charles,

We are so sorry to read about your Dad's passing.  You and your families are in our thoughts and prayers.  We have fond memories of your family and our Metairie neighborhood.

Dottie, Frank, Gerald, Jeannine and Brett Minor

Memories of strength and purpose, borne out in a life well lived. 

Thaddeus

I had the pleasure of working with Blane at the Kenner Home Depot for many years until his retirement. Blaine was my friend, He called me “Trixie”  we joked a lot in the paint department. He was a  true character, who loved to clown and play pranks.  He also had a heart of gold, it was a time where I  had hardship and Blaine  found out he immediately jumped in helped me. That’s just the kind of person he was. Blaine was loved by so many and will truly be missed. 

We moved from Jefferson Parish, New Orleans, in 1949 to Connecticut after three wonderful years living nearby our aunts, uncles, and cousins. My cousin Blaine was heavy into model airplanes and in 1956, when we returned to New Orleans for a family reunion with the Johnson, Buchtel, and Hatch families, Blaine taught me the fine art of covering the balsa wood models we glued together witih tissue paper and a light covering of clear dope. What a great teacher my cousin Blaine was. In at the end of my junior year of college, with a ticket deal from Greyhound for a 99 day trip on the bus for $99.00, I went all across the United States ending up in New Orleans for a second reunion with Blaine. By this time in his life, Blaine had graduated to motorized model airplanes with wing spans of three feet or greater. He was truly into his hobby. The last time I saw Blaine was just after Katrina when I flew to New Orleans to check up on the health of my cousins and aunt and uncle. We spent a good evening reminiscing at Sweet Emma's down in the Quarter. I regret not having kept the friendship live during the intervening years and was saddened to hear of my cousin's passing.

Charles and Laura, I fondly remember meeting you on one of my trips to your home, and am so sorry for your loss. 

Most sincerely,

Your first cousin once removed,

Steve Johnson

I had the pleasure of working with Blaine while he was in his sail loft  at West End. He taught me much about sail and canvas work and I truly appreciated his generous nature. I watched him build a large box kite from scratch and I still remember the look of simple joy on his face the first time it flew. He had a love for many hobbies, including his daily soap opera. He will be missed by many.  

Got introduced to Blaine around 15 years ago.  Had the privilege of seeing a man be so happy as a grand father, father, friend, and sailor.  Our prayers go out to the family and close friends with our loss of such a true gentleman.  I’m better off knowing Blaine and thankful to been able to know him and his kindness that these days seems to be a rare trait.  

Blaine and I were the very best of friends.  Cars, boats, sailing, airplanes, motorcycles and more - we did all these together.   I will miss him.

The entire staff at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home wishes to express our sincere condolences. 

OBITUARY

Blaine Charles Buchtel

August 11, 1944 – November 8, 2021

Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemeteries

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