Alfred P. Bucholtz

Alfred Paul Bucholtz, a lifelong resident of Forest Park, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2019, just shy of his 98th birthday. He was born in Forest Park, IL on Nov.12, 1921 to George and Martha (Schlichting) Bucholtz and is survived by his loving wife of 71 years Margaret Bucholtz, daughter Kathleen Bucholtz, and son Kenneth Bucholtz.
After graduating from St. John (Forest Park) and Proviso East H.S. (1939), Al served in the U.S. Army during WWII (1943-1946), spending over two years in Germany, England and France. He married the love of his life, Marge, in 1948, raised two children and enjoyed a successful 41-year career as a manager in parts and sales at Electro Motive (GM) in McCook, IL.
Growing up during the depression and serving in WWII, Al was part of what many have called the greatest generation. He was a natural athlete, played basketball and tennis at Proviso East, bowled a 300 game at age 65, and played golf with Marge, friends and family well into his 80's. He loved music, especially the "Big-Band "era, and was a somewhat accomplished bridge (and poker) player. Al enjoyed a good laugh, always seemed to have a joke at the ready (some good ones), and greeted friends and strangers alike with genuine warmth, kindness, and interest. Though never one to boast, his talents and leadership skills were recognized and trusted by many in the church and community. Volunteering often at St. John Lutheran Church, serving on the zoning board of Forest Park, and coaching baseball, were just some of the ways Al sought to give back to the church and town that were so much a part of his life. Although his body eventually failed him, he was blessed with a sharp mind and quick wit until the end.
Al was preceded in death by his parents George and Martha, and by his sister Louise (Jensen) and brother George. Besides his immediate family, he is survived by his sister-in-law, Elaine Hevrdejs (Florida), and his nephews and nieces Wallace Jensen (Illinois), Richard Jensen (Sharon) (Illinois), Frank Hevrdejs (Michelle) (Texas), Patricia Hevrdejs (Florida), Susan Scheppler (Illinois), Janis Gonzales (New Mexico) and their families. Al is also survived by numerous cousins in the Schlichting family.
Visitation Monday (Oct 28) 5:00pm - 8:00pm at Zimmerman-Harnett Funeral Home 7319 W. Madison St., Forest Park and Tuesday 10:00am-11:00am at St. john Ev. Lutheran Church 305 Circle Ave, Forest Park where Service will be held at 11:00am.
In lieu of flowers, donations to renovate the sound system at St. John Lutheran Church in Forest Park, IL or the Oak Park Animal Care League are greatly appreciated. Info. 708366-2200 or www.ZimmermanHarnett.com.

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