Albert C. “Bud” Buechler, 92, a beloved husband and devoted family man, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly. Born in Pennsauken, New Jersey, Bud’s life journey was one marked by dedication, service, and love.
He was the son of Lester and Louise Buechler, who preceded him in death. Bud was married to the love of his life, Joyce, for an incredible 64 years—a testament to their enduring bond and partnership. Together, they build a family rooted in love and mutual respect.
Bud’s life was one of service and commitment. He graduated class of 1956-B from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and sailed commercially for 7 years, which set the stage for his distinguished career in the U.S. Coast Guard. After 27 years of dedicated service, Capt. Buechler retired, leaving behind a legacy of honor and duty. His commitment to his fellow servicemen continued through his active participation in the USCG Retiree Council at TRACEN, Yorktown, VA (aka “The Table of Wisdom”), and he taught for several years at the Chesapeake Marine Training Institute in Gloucester, VA, where he found camaraderie with others who had served.
Bud found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He had a love for boating, fishing and RVing. These hobbies were not just pastimes but opportunities for Bud to connect with family and friends, sharing laughter and creating lasting memories.
Bud was a family man. His love for his family was evident in every facet of his life. Bud is survived by his wife, Joyce; children, Lesley Buechler, Alyse Goetsch (Bryan) and Eric Buechler; brother, Alan Buechler; grandchildren, Megan Sterk (Richard), Alexander Goetsch, Maggie Goetsch, Lt. Abby Goetsch USCG and Devin Buechler; great-grandchildren Elizabeth Sterk, R. J. Sterk, Rebekah Sterk, Joseph Sterk and Ruth Sterk and nephews, Rev. Steven Buechler, Rev. Robert Buechler and Christian Buechler.
The family will receive friends from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 30th at Peninsula Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home at 2:00 p.m. and burial with military honors will follow at Peninsula Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made in Bud’s name to WHRO Public Media by visiting https://www.whro.org/memorial-gifts.