Donna K. Bucher

Donna K. Bucher

Donna K. Bucher, age 78, of New Hamburg, Missouri, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family. She was born on August 3, 1947, and throughout her life she found joy and purpose in nature, health, and simple living. Married for 61 years to her sweetheart Joe.

Donna had a special way of connecting with the outdoors. She spent countless hours gardening, tending to flowers, and caring for the ducks and geese at her pond. Her greenhouse was a favorite place, where she could often be found potting plants and nurturing them with care. She also enjoyed crafting, cooking healthy meals and smoothies, and staying active—whether it was rollerblading around the lake, walking, doing Tae-Bo, or using her Total Gym.

Music was another part of Donna’s life that brought her happiness. Friends would often gather in the shop to play music, and she treasured the fellowship and joy those evenings brought. Her home was a place where both nature and music seemed to flow together, creating an atmosphere of peace and enjoyment.

Donna was known for her fun and eclectic personality and a gypsy soul that made life with her unforgettable. She loved to laugh, to create, and to live vibrantly. She was always up for a good game of euchre or rummy, and especially enjoyed the times when she beat her husband Joe in a hand!

Her positivity radiated and will be greatly missed by many, especially her daughters.

Her grandchildren carry many fond memories of time spent with her—whether it was helping in the greenhouse, sitting around the kitchen, working on projects in her craft room, or playing games in the basement. These moments reflected her active spirit and her appreciation for time well spent. In her last year, she especially cherished the joy of playing with her great-grandson, and watching her light up around him was a gift to all who loved her.

Donna is survived by her husband, Joseph L. Bucher; her daughters, Melanie Balsman and husband Greg of Cape Girardeau, MO, and Amy Milam and husband Brock of Benton, MO. She was grandmother to grandsons Trevor Todt, Brennon Todt and wife Brooke; granddaughters Lexie Holder and husband Mitchell, Chelsea Stephens and husband Sam, and Addison Armstrong and husband Devin. She was also great-grandmother to Kix Armstrong, who brought her much joy. In addition, she is survived by step-grandson Jake Balsman and wife Brandy, and step-great-grandsons Trenton, Brock, and Mason. Survivors also include her brothers Dave Craigmiles and wife Tina, Terry Craigmiles; sisters Gwen Rothenberger, Janet Temple, Julie Craigmiles, and Paula Craigmiles.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Dorthy Craigmiles, her brother George Craigmiles, and her sister Elaine.

Donna and Joe made their home in New Hamburg, MO, on their peaceful property surrounded by nature. It was there, in the place she loved most, that Donna gave her last breath, held in the care of her family.

Visitation will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025 from 4:00 until 8:00 PM at Amick-Burnett Funeral Chapel in Chaffee.

Family Eulogy will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at 9:45 AM and a Eucharistic Celebration will begin at 10:00 AM with Rev. Daniel Belken as celebrant. Burial will follow at the St. Lawrence Cemetery in New Hamburg.

Amick-Burnett Funeral Chapels assisting with arrangements.

Online Condolences: www.amick-burnetfuneralchapels.com