Eugene Leo Buczek, 88, of Ypsilanti, Michigan, was born in Rome, New York, on April 9, 1937, to the late Frank and Anna (Karcz) Buczek. He passed away peacefully at his home on February 16, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Gene graduated from Holland Patent Central School in 1956, where he developed the strong work ethic, determination, and sense of responsibility that would define his life.

Following high school, Gene proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1957 to 1962. During his service, he earned several certifications and professional accomplishments, reflecting his technical expertise and commitment to excellence. His Air Force career took him across the globe, and ultimately, Tinker Air Force Base became the place where he met Betty Sue, the love of his life.

Gene and Betty were married in 1962, beginning a lifelong partnership built on love, resilience, faith, and devotion to family. Together they raised four children and created a home centered on strength, laughter, and unwavering support.

After his military service, Gene continued his career in the aircraft and aviation maintenance field - work that he truly loved. He was highly respected for his knowledge, precision, and strong work ethic. Aviation was more than a job to Gene; it was a passion. His dedication to his career was evident in that he continued teaching and mentoring others in the field well into his 80s, a testament to both his expertise and tireless spirit.

Gene was truly a fixer of everything - no task could hold him down. Whether inside the home or outside in the yard, he was always working on a project. He loved staying busy, especially tending to he and Susie's garden and being outdoors. He and his family shared a love of traveling and camping, creating memories across the miles that will be cherished forever. One of his greatest joys was traveling from Michigan to New York to attend the family's annual Buczek Family Reunion. Hosted by the Buczek siblings, this tradition has been going strong for 40 years.

Music was another great joy in Gene's life. Self-taught and naturally talented, he played several instruments, including the piano, keyboard, harmonica, and most proudly and traditionally,  the accordion. Wherever Gene went, you could be sure a polka or familiar tune would soon follow. His music brought people together and filled rooms with warmth and celebration.

Above all, Gene was a devout Catholic who loved God deeply and committed his life to Him. His faith guided his decisions, strengthened him through life's challenges, and shaped the way he loved and cared for his family. His trust in the Lord remained steadfast throughout his life.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Helen, Kadzmir, Walter, Edward, Joseph, John, and Stanley; and his children, Brenda, Michael, and Richard.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Betty Sue; his daughter, Vicki and husband Ron; his cherished grandchildren: Christy, Erica (Matthew), Chelsea, Ryan; great-grandchildren: Madelynne (AJ), Chase (Jeni), Kristin, Elijah, Maxwell, Matthew, Scarlett; great-great-grandchildren: Gracelynn and Kinsley; and his siblings, Mary, Tadeusz, Richard, Mayfred, and Carl, and several sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces, and nephews. His family was his greatest pride and joy, and he treasured every moment spent with them.

A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, with in state beginning at 10 am. Eugene will be laid to rest at Washtenong Memorial Park, Ann Arbor Township.

The family will receive friends from 4–8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Stark Funeral Professionals.

May he rest in the peace of Christ, reunited with those who have gone before him.