Max Josef Bucher

Max Josef Bucher of Addison, Illinois, passed away on January 2, 2026. He was born on October 8, 1937, in Michelsdorf, Bavaria, Germany.

Max was a devoted husband to his wife, Maria, for 58 years and a loving father to Josef (Lisa), Thomas (MinJeong), Mary (Daniel Roth), Peter (Diane), and Amy. He was a proud grandfather to Ashley, Nicholas, Stefani, Christina, Abigail, Michael, Diana, Kyle, Alanna, and Arabella. Loving uncle to niece Regina Goetz and nephew Martin Bucher.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Georg and Theres Bucher, and his brother, Heinz (Irma) Bucher.

Max’s strong work ethic was shaped early in life while growing up on a farm in Germany. As a young man, he moved to Munich to train as a brick mason and played soccer for FC Bayern. In 1957, he immigrated to the United States and settled in Chicago, where he later served honorably in the U.S. Army from January 1961 to December 1962.

While in Chicago, Max met the love of his life, Maria, at a German-American dance. They were married in 1967. He went on to build a distinguished career as a union construction foreman, contributing his craftsmanship to many iconic Chicago landmarks, including 900 North Michigan Avenue, the Harold Washington Library, Navy Pier, 311 South Wacker Drive, the Sears Tower, McCormick Place, Soldier Field, O’Hare International Terminal, and Midway Airport. Of all his accomplishments, the home he built for his family remained his most treasured creation.

Max was a lifelong soccer superfan. He also cherished road trips and family vacations. He took great pride in his German heritage and enjoyed dancing and ice curling. He was also a proud member of the Edelweiss German Club and the Elmhurst Männerchor men's choir. Later in life, Max found great joy in spending time with his grandchildren, whom he loved deeply. A man of deep faith, he was a devoted parishioner of St. Philip the Apostle Church in Addison.

Max will be remembered for his strength, dedication to family, pride in his work, and the enduring legacy of love he leaves behind.

Family and friends are to gather for the Visitation Tuesday, January 6, 2026 from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Humes Funeral Home, 310 W. Lake Street, Addison, IL 60101. Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday, January 7, 2026, 10 AM at St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church, 1233 W. Holtz Ave, Addison, IL. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside, IL. For additional information please call 630-628-8808.

In Lieu of flowers donations to the American Cancer Society appreciated.