Wayne Edward Bucholz

Gladstone, MI

Wayne E. Bucholz of 1403 N. Bluff Drive, Gladstone, passed away Thursday, March 5, 2026 at his home surrounded by family.

Wayne was born January 12, 1933 in West Branch, Michigan the son of Emil and Edith (Hutson) Bucholz. He moved to Harrison, Michigan with his parents and 3 brothers in 1937. He attended Harrison schools and graduated in 1951.

Wayne continued his education at Central Michigan University and received his Bachelor of Science Degree in 1955. He began his teaching, coaching career in Elsie, Michigan.

Wayne married the former Ivah Sue Smith of Owosso, Michigan in 1957.

He continued his work in the educational field at the University of Colorado, University of Michigan and Michigan State University. Wayne received his Masters Degree in general educational administration from the University of Michigan in 1961. He returned to Central Michigan University in 1973 to work on a degree in counseling and guidance which he completed in 1976.

Wayne worked in the field of education for 40 years. In the 40 years he served as a teacher, coach, athletic director, bus driver, Elementary principal and superintendent at the following school districts…Elsie, Harrison, Gladstone and Manistique.

Wayne's most rewarding experiences during his educational career included the following: Selected Michigan's most outstanding Elementary Principal in 1973. President of the Michigan Association of School Administrators (MASA) from 1992-1993. In forty years Wayne never missed a day of work due to illness.

In addition to education, Wayne was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Gladstone since 1977, where he served as senior warden, lay reader, and member of the vestry.

Wayne loved all sports, and was a basketball official for 25 years with the honor of officiating the High School Class C state championship game in 1973. He was also an avid grouse hunter which he did for 80 years.

Wayne is survived by his children Danae (Jon) Apelgren, Robin (Jill) Bucholz, Lisa (Troy) Nelson and Angela (Darin) Hunter. 9 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 68 years, Ivah Sue, his parents and his three brothers Cliff, Dean and Glenn.

The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Bucholz family. Per Wayne's wishes, no formal services will be scheduled.