Preston Carl Buchtel

Preston Carl Buchtel, 62, a gifted architectural designer and an exceptional artist in many mediums, passed away on December 17, 2025. Preston never doubted the importance of showing us the joys and the sorrows of our world and the things we do that contribute to our own condition. A constant thinker, an advocate for accountability in world crises and human suffering, and a generous loving friend, family member, and life partner. He is survived by his father Michael A. Buchtel, sister Michele Buchtel Blough, nephew Nathen Blough, and niece Moryah Blough, and loving cousins, two aunts and an uncle. Preceded in death by his mother Pauline Slee Buchtel. He leaves behind his partner, Deirdre Lauer. He will be deeply missed for his fearlessness and compassion, and for his humor and ability to make up silly songs to sing to Deirdre and their cats. We are profoundly grateful for the love, comfort, and practical help offered by so many friends, which truly eased our burden. A memorial will be planned for a later date.