COMMEMORATING the
LIFE of OUR MOTHER
Willie Mae Gardner Buchan, born September 1934.
Though our mother was not one for obituaries or funerals (which is why our father, John, who preceded her in passing never had either one.) We their children want to convey how much they loved each other, their children and this community. John and Willie Buchan brought their brood of 7 children to settle in Winnemucca in 1969. This small town of Winnemucca embraced by mountain ranges and high desert beauty.
The Buchan home promoted the love of books and creativity (drawing, sculpting and reading often times came before dusting and tidying). Our dad was quite a talented artist who carved lino blocks to produce homemade Christmas cards every year. He would invent the answer to any of Mother’s needs, from the care of the 7 offspring to whatever gadget she needed for her crafting and seamstress hobbies. She turned her passions into a craft fair career.
In 1979 the young couple, along with friends, pioneered the Winnemucca Crafters Art Show.
Mom participated every year since. Mother was partners in her late years with “Treasures From the Heart”, a unique shop that sold hand-crafted goods and vintage finds.
Willie and John were regular blood donors. Dad reached the goal of receiving his five gallon keychain. He was so proud. Every year Willie and John, on their wedding anniversary, made a date for the “flu shot.”
Mom was and active volunteer for many years. She volunteered for the hospital auxiliary at the Poke n’ Peek thrift store, where she made dear, and long-lasting friendships.
Willie also appreciated that when she needed anything from a plumber, to a gardener, to a doctor, chances were it was the face of one of her children's classmates.
To her last day, Willie was a beautiful, creative, bird loving, garden tending Mom, Grandmother,
Great-Grandmother, and Great-Great Grandmother. She will be Great- Great- Greatly missed.
We Love You
