On July 1, 1946, Michael James Buell met the love of his life, Judith Lynn Rhind, just three days after he was born. Looking over from his nursery crib at the old Silver Cross Hospital, he declared, “I’m going to marry that beautiful girl someday!” Eighty years later, they celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary. On August 2, 2026 @ 2:27 pm, Mike reunited with his parents Carlos and Sara (nee Warner) Buell, siblings Monty (late Patricia), John (late Bonnie) (Jan), Eve (Edmund) Pellettiere, Philip, and his sweet baby Holly in heaven, following a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Over the years, Mike built a life centered on family, faith, work, and service to his community. He followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather by working on the EJ&E Railroad, and he eventually retired from Canadian National in 2006.

Mike found joy in walking, camping, golfing, puzzling, and staying active at the gym—where he always insisted on doing two extra reps. Whether sitting around a campfire or spending a day at the ballpark, he loved relaxing with “two” cold beers and a Chicago-style hot dog.

A devoted Christian, Mike lived his life with kindness and dedicated service to others. He volunteered over 10,520 hours at Silver Cross Hospital, installing Lifelines and then delivering newspapers with joy and the most adorable smiles to patients and staff. To deepen his connection to God, he also participated in the Walk to Emmaus through the New Lenox United Methodist Church Men's Ministry. His close buddies then accompanied him on food pantry runs where they fostered deep friendships and community connections.

Above all, Mike put family first. He took immense pride in his children - Jody Buell and Jeanette (Michael) Gordon. That pride extended to his beloved grandchildren - Mila and Xavier. He taught them to live bravely, stay present, live life with purpose, and love unconditionally.

To know Mike was to adore him. Though he was a man of few words, those he spoke were always filled with wit and wisdom. His laugh was infectious, and his conviction fierce, yet his soul was deeply tender. While Parkinson’s disease took much from him, it never broke his spirit.

Mike is survived by the love of his life, Judith Buell, his children, grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation 0n Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 9:00 AM until time of service at 12:00 PM at the United Methodist Church of New Lenox, located at 339 W. Haven Ave. Join us for a time of remembrance, prayer, and shared comfort as we honor the memory of a truly special man. Sunday’s best and brightest attire. Please stay and share your favorite memories of Mike during our church luncheon.

Close family and friends are invited to Graceland Cemetery located at 4001 N. Clark Street, Chicago, IL on Monday, August 17, 2026, for a 1:00 PM graveside service where Mike will be laid to rest with military honors. Gathering to follow. RSVP to Jody Buell @ jody_buell@me.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mike's honor to The Parkinson's Foundation (The Parkinson's Foundation/?form=19983&Tribute=true), Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care (www.lightways.org/donate/), and/or the United Methodist Church of New Lenox (www.umcnl.com/giving).