Dr. Walter M. Buehl

1937 - 2017

Dr. Walter M. Buehl, age 79, of Corning, New York, died on March 14, 2017 at Brookdale Assisted Living in Painted Post, New York.

Walter was born on October 21, 1937 in Niagara Falls, New York, the son of Lucille Juten Buehl and Walter Martin Buehl. In 1955 Walter graduated as class valedictorian from Niagara Falls High School. He graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1959 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering, and received his PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Illinois in 1964. Corning Glass Works then recruited Walter where he spent his entire professional career.

In 2001 Walter retired as a Research Associate in Research and Development at Sullivan Park. He returned to Corning after retirement to serve as a consultant. Walter held three patents with Corning and retired from Corning with the respect of his peers for his scientific acumen, his mathematical expertise, and his enthusiasm to assist others.

Walter had a passion for the game of chess and was well respected locally and nationally for his proficiency. He was ranked as Expert nationally, and was inducted into the New York Chess Hall of Fame where he was also active with committee work. Walter competed successfully in numerous chess tournaments both locally and nationally over the years. Every summer Walter enjoyed competing in the US Open Chess Tournament.

Walter was an accomplished pianist and flutist. He regularly participated in The National Flute Association's annual convention. Walter joined the Corning Community Band in 1981 and enjoyed participating in their many concerts, parades, and presentations at local facilities. He frequently toured throughout Europe with the American Winds Concert Band.

Walter joined the Corning First United Methodist Church in 1964. He sang in the church choir for nearly 20 years, and also served on the Finance Committee.

Walter is survived by his brother Robert Buehl, M.D., nieces Cynthia Bliss, Susan Lerner, Kristin Zlogar, Jaime Buehl-Reichard, Céline Buehl and Margaux Buehl, as well as five grandnieces and two grandnephews.

Walter was predeceased by his parents, and sister, Mary Louise Lerner.

Visitation will be on Friday April 21st from 2-3PM at Haughey Funeral Home, Inc. 216 E. First Street, followed immediately by a service at 3PM. Burial will be at the convenience of the family in the family plot in Niagara Falls, New York.

The family will provide flowers and ask that memorials be made to Corning Meals on Wheels or the Corning Area Community Band. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Walter's family entrusted his care to Haughey Funeral Home, Inc.