Charles O. Buchanan

Charles Otis Buchanan passed away peacefully on November 8, 2023 at the age of 90. He was born to Hugh and Thelma Buchanan on August 22, 1933 at Lodi Hospital. Charles grew up on the family farm in Lafayette Township. As a child, he loved playing with the family's dogs and caring for the farm animals. It is there where his lifelong love of animals began.
He graduated from Medina High School and was an active member in the FFA and 4-H programs.
Charles began his studies at Ohio Northern University before enlisting in the United States Coast Guard where he proudly served his country for four years. His time in the service took him to Chicago, Minneapolis, and other U.S. locations, as well as assignments that were farther afield, including Hawaii and Japan.
The bulk of Charles' professional life was spent at what was formerly known as the Old Phoenix National Bank in a career that spanned over 30 years. Starting out as a bank teller, he rose through the ranks before retiring as a Senior Vice President of Old Phoenix.
Although he traveled widely during his time in the U.S. Coast Guard, Medina was always home for Charles. It was the place where he and his wife Gretchen raised their three daughters and later received visits from their grandchildren and great-grandchild – hosting years of Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter celebrations.
Charles had an infectiously witty and dry sense of humor. His jokester nature often came out when people were least expecting it, but you couldn't help joining in his laughter.
His love of animals continued throughout his life - and they loved him, too. He rescued and cared for many cats and dogs over the years, enjoying nothing more than cuddling up with the family pets on the sofa.
Charles was a life-long learner, always trying new hobbies and looking to discover new things. His youth on the farm led to a passion for gardening and a love of working outdoors. Charles never met a tool that he didn't like and was an avid woodworker. Over the years, he also learned how to upholster furniture, create beautiful stained-glass pieces, and fold intricate works of origami among other creative hobbies.
Cooking was another one of Charles' passions and he eagerly sought out new recipes to try and share with others. His famous chocolate-chip cookies, homemade pies from scratch, stir-fry dishes, and holiday dinners were among some of the (many) family favorites.
Charles had an incredible zest for life. He loved his family dearly and will be deeply missed by all.
Charles is preceded in death by his beloved sister Belva (Fred). He is survived by his wife of sixty years, Gretchen, as well as his three daughters Beth, Amy, and Carla (David). His passing is also mourned by his nine grandchildren, Emily (Max), Rebecca (Kai), Kayla (Peter), Shane, Aidan, Ethan, Gabriel, Makena, and Seth, as well as his great-grandson Miles.
The family extends our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the staff at Plum Creek Senior Living and Traditions Health for the compassionate care provided to Charles in his final days.
Visiting hours will be held at Waite & Son, 765 N. Court Street, Medina, Ohio on Saturday, November 11, 2023, from Noon to 2:00 p.m. followed by a funeral service at 2:00 p.m. A memorial luncheon will be held following the service. A private family burial will be held on Monday, November 13, 2023 at Spring Grove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers and to honor Charles' memory, the family suggests that a donation be made to the Medina County SPCA, 8790 Guilford Road, Seville, Ohio 44273 [ www.medinacountyspca.com/donate ].