Obituaries

With heavy hearts, his family announces the passing of Sune Edward Bucht, lovingly known to family and friends as "Mutt,” “Uncle Mutt," or "Muttly, “ who passed peacefully in his sleep on August 31, 2026, at the age of 77.

Sune was born on August 26, 1949, in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, to Sune August Bucht and Hilka Hilder (Heinonen) Bucht. He spent his early years on Drummond Island, in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, developing a lifelong appreciation for hard work, family, and the outdoors.

After graduating from DeTour High School, Sune attended Ferris State University, where he earned an Associate Degree in Auto Body Technology. Following college, he moved to the Detroit area to work for Ford Motor Company. On March 30, 1974, he married Carol Marie Claphan. Returning to Drummond Island, they built a life centered on family, community, and enjoying the island's beauty. After the retirement of his parents, Sune and Hilka Bucht, he and Carol took over management of Sune's Grocery Store. There, Sune became known not only as a hardworking businessman but also as an exceptionally talented butcher. Renowned for cutting the perfect steak, he took great pride in his craft.

Beyond his work as a butcher, Sune loved cooking and baking for family, friends, and the community. He was always searching for new bread or cake recipes to try and greatly enjoyed sharing his creations. Among his specialties was his beloved Finnish rye bread, a family favorite that became well known and cherished by all who were fortunate enough to enjoy it.

While he valued his work, Sune's true passion was the outdoors. He found great joy in hunting, fishing, and trapping, pursuits that connected him to the land and waters he loved. Whether sharing stories at camp, teaching others outdoor skills, or spending time in the woods or on the water, Sune was happiest in nature.

Sune was deeply committed to Drummond Island. He proudly served as a volunteer firefighter, was actively involved with the Drummond Island Clinic Board and the Drummond Island Sportsman's Club, and participated in numerous other community organizations throughout the years. He was also a proud member of the Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Michigan, valuing the principles of brotherhood, integrity, charity, and service that guided his life. His generosity, reliability, and willingness to help wherever needed earned him the respect and friendship of many.

Sune is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Carol Bucht; his two daughters, Marie and Erik Green of Denver, Colorado, and Shelly Bucht and her companion, Jeffery, of Alaska; and his cherished grandchildren, Emily Ann Green and Erik Hunter Green. He is also survived by his sister, Ann Bitowski Schultz of Grosse Ile, Michigan; his brother-in-law, Dale (Barbara) Claphan, of Redford, Michigan; many cherished nieces and nephews; along with extended family members and numerous dear friends.

Sune was preceded in death by his parents, Sune and Hilka Bucht; sister, Ruth (Vincent) Klamerus; brother, Carl (Bonnie) Bucht; nephews, Vincent Wade Klamerus and Scott Bitowski; parents-in-law, Kenneth (Grace Marie) Claphan; and brothers-in-law, Harold (Pat) Claphan, Glen Bitowski, and James Schultz.

Those who knew Sune will remember his exceptionally strong work ethic, love of the outdoors, sense of humor, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. Whether as a firefighter, Mason, sportsman, businessman, or friend, Sune lived a life defined by service. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the traditions he passed down, and the memories shared by those who loved him.

A memorial gathering will be held on Monday, September 14, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM at Drummond Island Lutheran Church, 29515 E. Channel Rd. Drummond Island, MI 49726. The memorial service will follow at 10:30 AM. A luncheon hosted by the Drummond Island Homemakers will follow at 12:00 Noon at the Drummond Township Hall.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Pickford assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com. Obituary submitted by Family.