BUSCHER, JOSEPH A.

KISSIMMEE — Services were held Monday for Joseph Arthur Buscher who lived a quiet life, raising a family, building a career and playing golf.

Buscher’s serene and modest lifestyle masked his other side – a heroic Marine, and a decorated veteran of World War II’s South Pacific Theater. Buscher, 68, died Thursday [December 6, 1990] of injuries in an automobile accident.

”He did not brag on anything he’d done,” said Neta Buscher, Buscher’s wife of 14 years. ”He served in the Marine equivalent of the Green Berets in the South Pacific.”

In addition to a presidential citation, Buscher received the Bronze Star for heroic or meritorious service in combat. Twice Buscher was awarded the Purple Heart, a decoration presented to members of the armed forces wounded in action.

Born in Baltimore, Md., on Aug. 17, 1922, Buscher went on to work for Martin Marietta in Maryland for seven years before moving to Kissimmee in 1958 and taking a position with the same company in Orlando.

Buscher retired as the chief of production control in 1985 after more than 30 years with Martin Marietta.

Buscher shared his passion for golf with his longtime employer, serving as president of the Martin Marietta Golf Association.

Other affiliations include a former governorship of the Loyal Order of Moose and a membership in the Kissimmee Elks Club.

Buscher was a Protestant.

In addition to his wife, Neta, survivors include sons Joseph A. III, St. Petersburg, Robert E., Atlanta, Ga.; daughter, Colleen Salbage, Orlando; stepson, Donald D. Clay, Kissimmee; brothers, Walter, Orlando, George, Palm Beach Gardens, David, Merrit Island; sister, Marie Hannible, Baltimore; four grandchildren; one great-grandchild.

Services were held at Grissom Funeral Home Chapel, Kissimmee.