Lennard J. “Blue” Blucher was born October 10, 1928, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the son of A.W. and Edith (Backlund) Blucher. Lennard was baptized and confirmed a member of the Lutheran Church. At the age of four, his mother passed away, and he, along with his brother and father moved to a ranch north of Midland. He began school at the age of four at the Prairie Queen Rural School north of Midland, where he remained until his sixth grade year, when he attended school in Sioux Falls and spent the summers at the ranch. After his eighth grade year, he returned to the ranch and attended Midland High School, graduating in 1946. After graduation, he worked for Midland Power and Light for two years before returning to the ranch.
Lennard was united in marriage to an “older” woman, Louise C. “Dolly” Block on June 12, 1949 in Rapid City, South Dakota. After their marriage they lived on the ranch north of Midland, where they remained until moving to Wall in 2007.
Other than his family, Lennard’s greatest joy in life was music, especially playing the accordion and singing in various groups, including the Haakon County Crooners. Lennard would play the accordion and Dolly would dance around entertaining everyone at various nursing homes in western South Dakota. After moving to Wall, Lennard was a faithful member of the Wall Drug “Political Party” that met in the afternoons to discuss and rectify the world’s problems. Lennard was so proud of the house in Wall because it had a lawn that Dolly could walk barefoot in, and she did!
Lennard was a longtime member of the Trinity Lutheran Church in Midland where he filled many roles over the years. He did everything from fundraising for the church organ to reading the sermons on Sunday mornings, and teaching Sunday School, never once forgetting to have a pocketful of candy for his grandchildren. In their later years, Lennard and Dolly became active members of the Lutheran Memorial Church in Pierre. Lennard also taught countless dance lessons, served on the Midland School Board, the Midland Community Fire Department, and was an original member of the Haakon County Crooners that he faithfully attended every Sunday night for over 20 years.
Survivors include his wife Dolly Blucher of Wall; two daughters Lavonne Nameny and her husband Jim of Cloverdale, California, and Marlis Doud and her husband Rick of Midland; three grandchildren Tia Johnson and her husband Josh of Oceanside, California, Lindsy Reagle and her husband Chad of Wall, and Jared Doud of Midland; two great-granddaughters Ellie and Ava Johnson; one step-great-grandson Dawson Johnson; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Lennard was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Norman Blucher; and his sister Elaine Heffley.
Visitation was held 4-6 p.m. Friday, June 10, at the Rush Funeral Home in Philip, and one hour preceding the services at the church on Saturday.
Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m. MDT Saturday, June 11, at the Lutheran Memorial Church in Pierre, with Pastor Paul Bly officiating.
Interment was 2:00 p.m. MDT, Saturday, June 11, at the Midland Cemetery in Midland, South Dakota.
A memorial is established.
FUNERAL SERVICES
Saturday, June 11, 2011 - 11:00 a.m. CDT
Lutheran Memorial Church
Pierre, South Dakota
CLERGY
Pastor Paul Bly
MUSIC
Kim Bierle - Organist
Chauncey Jorgensen - Vocalist
“Children of the Heavenly Father”
Haakon County Crooners
“Breathe on Me Breath of God”
“The Lord’s Prayer”
Congregational Hymn
“The Church's One Foundation”
USHERS
Tony Willoughby - Jerry Nemec
Joe Schwalm - Keith Harry
PALLBEARERS
Mark Peterson - Steve Blucher
Gary Block - Jeff Willoughby
Gary Snook - Sanden Simons
HONORARY PALLBEARERS
Haakon County Crooners
INTERMENT
Saturday, June 11, 2011 - 2:00 p.m. MDT
Midland Cemetery
Midland, South Dakota
Guest Book
Dear Dollie, So sorry Lennard has passed on what a great couple you folks were. You were a great example and inspiration to us all. He is with his Lord free from all suffering. Bet he's playing the accordian up there. We're thinking of you Dollie and will be praying for you. Sincerely Lavern & Dianne
~ Lavern & Dianne Terkildsen
Wall, SD 57790 (6/6/2011)
Marlis and all~
Our sincere sympathy in the loss of your father/grandfather. You are in our hearts during this time. Think good thoughts and memories will flow freely-to keep near your hearts forever.
Blessings.
Jason, Vonda and Boys
~ Vonda Hamill and Family
Milesville (6/6/2011)
Marlis, Rick and Family, So sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. Thoughts and prayers to you all.
Joan
~ Joan Enders
Kadoka (6/6/2011)
Dolly, Marlis, and family,
So sorry to read about Lennard's death. I enjoyed singing with him in the Crooners. May God give you peace and strength during this time.
~ Mark Ford
St. Cloud, MN (6/6/2011)
So sorry to read of your dad's passing, Marlis. It's tough losing our parents, keep the great memories you have close in the coming days. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family.
~ Tom and Jane Aasby
Rapid City (6/6/2011)
Dolly and family--Our deepest sympathy to you at this time. May you keep those special memories close to your hearts. Don and Sally
~ Don and Sally Ehlers
Midland, S.D. (6/6/2011)
You are all in our thoughts and prayers--Lennard's music was enjoyed so much.
~ Michael and Marcia West
PO Box 430 Philip,SD 57567 (6/6/2011)
Leonard was one of a kind for sure. It was so nice to see him share his talent with those in the nursing home through the years. I can remember giving rides to ladies who would go down from the Senechal just to hear him. It made them smile and want to dance. Bless him for sharing with so many. May your memories bring smiles to your faces also as you endure this loss. Bless you all.
~ Julie Nixon
22401 Deadman Creek Road, Philip (6/6/2011)
Sorry to hear about your father's death, he was a very nice and friendly man, knowing him from Lutheran Memorial Church in Pierre and also while living in Wall, through the Haakon County Crooners. Always enjoyed visiting with your folks at the events we attended to while the Crooners sang and also when we would see your parents at Wall Drug occasionally as we were passing through. He is at peace now and know you have many great memories.
~ Mary and Don Keyser
3825 Odde Drive Rapid City, SD 57701 (6/6/2011)
Rick, Marlis and family
So sorry to hear of your loss. I know there will be a big void in your life, but remember the happy times and the wonderful memories.
May God be with you in your time of grief and know that he will wrap his loving arms around you!
Hugs to all of you and please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers!
God bless you
David, Michelle, Kelcey, Katie & Lukas
~ Michelle Butler
Philip SD (6/6/2011)
Dolly, Marlis & family
We are sorry for your loss, but it is good that Lennard didn't have to endure great pain and suffering. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers as you go through the days ahead. There's a new accordian playing in the Heavenly band!
~ Val & Karl Schulz
Philip, SD (6/6/2011)
Dear Dolly and Family,
I have many fond memories of your family from many years ago. Dolly, you were a fabulous cook and after we had one of your delicious meals, Lennard would play for us and what a treat! Lavonne and Marlis were little girls then. Gene Hudson
~ Gene Hudson
Midland, SD (6/6/2011)
Rick, Marlis, and family
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Lennard was a very kind man. When I worked at the nursing home in Kadoka it was always a treat every month to listen to him play his accordian for the residents. He will be greatly missed by all that knew or met him. He will always be with you in your hearts and memories.
Please know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers. If you need anything at all let us know.
God Bless
~ John & Alisha Oldenberg
Philip, SD (6/6/2011)
Dolly, Marlis & family,
So sorry for your loss, may God bless you all. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
~ Debbie Falzone
Philip, SD (6/6/2011)
Dolly, Lavonne & Jim, Marlis, Rick, & Family,
Prayers are being offered for your intentions and for Lennard's just reward in heaven. We have all lost a good person. Enjoyed sitting and occaisonally standing next to him for so many years with the Crooners. As you know, we had our little side chats going on, as you were attempting to get us in line. He was so proud of you, Marlis, for your musical inspiration to us. May he be at peace with God. Joe & Kathy
~ Joe & Kathy Gittings
Philip (6/6/2011)
Dolly, Rick, Marlis and family,
Just want to let you know that your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Lennard was such a special and talented man. He always had a smile on his face and something to say everytime he greeted you. I know he will be greatly missed by your family and by the communities he entertained with his wonderful music. God bless you.
Ray and Donna Smith
~ Ray and Donna Smith
Philip (6/6/2011)
Sorry to hear of Lennards passing. We will keep you in our thoughts and in our prayers. Keep the memories in your heart. If there is anything we can do, please let us know. Kenny and Nancy
~ Nancy Neville
Philip (6/6/2011)
Dolly, Marlis & family,
I was saddened to hear of Lennard's passing. It is so very hard to lose someone you love. I always picture him with a big smile on his face and a friendly word to say. I hope you hold dear all those wonderful memories of the life he lived.Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
~ Nicole Nelson
Midland (6/6/2011)
May God be with you in your time of sorrow. The Good Samaritan enjoyed Lennard when he played his accordian at the society. When you would call he always came and entertained the resident's with old time Music, and it
was always with a love for the resident's. Our deepest
sympathy.
~ Alice Richter
Underwood (6/6/2011)
Dolly, Marlis, LaVonne and families. I was sorry to here of your loss with Lennard's passing. He was so active in the community and shared his musical talents with so many to give them joy. I remember dancing to his music at the nursing home in Philip and working with Lennard as a board member for the Midland School. I know he will be missed very much by all of you. He has left you with wonderful memories to warm your hearts. May God bless you now and may you feel his peace in your lives.
~ Marcia Jackson
Hot Springs, SD (6/6/2011)
Dolly & Family,
Lennard will be missed by so many people. He was a good neighbor, friend, and dancer! I'll never forget taking dance lessons with you two, and the fun we had at practices and dances. Remember that there's a loving God watching over you and that He'll stay close by your side. Love and Prayers. Pat
~ Pat Snook
Midland (6/6/2011)
The "Sour Note" was a bessing to so many. Lennard had a quick wit and wonderful way of adding cheer to others. The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time. With sympathy and beautiful memories.
~ Marsha and Bill Sumpter
Kadoka (6/6/2011)
Dear Dolly and family,
We were sorry to hear of Lennard's passing. We did so enjoy dancing to his music. He will be making music in heaven. God's Love and our Love and Prayers.
~ Art and Mickey Becket
2780 143rd Ave #40,Rapid City (6/6/2011)
I am so sorry for your loss. I bet Lennard is up in heaven with Grandma and Grandpa talking about all the good memories. I have many fond memories as well. May you find comfort in all the good memories you have. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I am sending hugs your way.
Love, Kathy, Bob, Garrett, Gus and Brylee
~ Kathy Larson LaDue
Anamosa, IA (6/6/2011)
Lindsay, Tia & Family; My thoughts and prayers go out to you all at this difficult time. Hugs to you all.
~ Crystal Bruinsma (Swift)
Mitchell, SD (6/6/2011)
One of the great joys of my life was getting to know Lennard, and to see the affection he had for Dolly. I hope they serve Belgian waffles and crisp bacon in heaven, and that God likes accordion music.
~ Ben Boyett
Winston Salem, NC (6/6/2011)
Heaven is a better place with Lennard there...I just wanted to let you know of the great pleasure it was to know Lennard. There wasn't a time that I drove by Midland that I didn't think of him and you Dolly. How blessed I was to know them and as our boys grew up I always looked forward to talking to both of them at basketball games. God Bless you all!!!!
~ Mary Miller
16152 Pioneer Rd. New Underwood SD (6/6/2011)
An era has ended.
Many thanks for the great music and good times supplied for the nursing home residents (the generations of radio listeners and dancers)over the years .
And much praise for his beloved family that "loved him home"
Praying comfort for your broken hearts.
~ Rebecca and Rocky Williams
Philip (6/6/2011)
I have wonderful memories of going to Dolly & Lennard's farm for Easter. After dinner we would push back the dinning room table and Lennard would take out his accordian and we would dance and sing. Lennard took such joy in his music his family, and politics too. He will be missed by many!
~ Amy Hodgson (Peterson) & Family
911 Ruby Place, Sioux Falls, SD, 57106 (6/6/2011)
So Sorry to hear of Lennard's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you guys. God Bless, Darcy Swift
~ Darcy Swift
Watertown, SD (6/6/2011)
Our sincerest sympathy to your family. Leonard will be missed very much. We enjoyed our visits with him at coffee in Wall. He was a very special man.
~ Rancour Family
Wasta SD (6/6/2011)
Our thoughts and prayers have been with you during these weeks. I feel blessed that we were able to know Lennard, hear his music, listen to his humor, and witness the great affection he had for Dolly and his family.
~ Justin and Joyce Wheeler
24208 Fairview Road, Philip SD (6/6/2011)
Dolly, Marlis and family~Just want you to all know our hearts and prayers go out to you today and in the days ahead. We know Lennard is at a better place but it is still hard to say goodbye.
~ Judy Goldhammer
Wall (6/6/2011)
Dolly and Marlis, Lennard was a very good friend and quite a musician. I really enjoyed the times we had the opportunity to play together at various events. I will always think of Lennard and his ability to read the crowd and play music to their particular tastes. We will miss him at the Dance Club also. Our prayers are with you and God Bless you both.
~ Mal and Bernadine Hinckley
20301 Cedar Court, Pierre, SD 57501 (6/6/2011)
Our thoughts and prayers are with you'all at this time. Helen Ostlien always enjoyed Lernnard coming to the Phillip Nursing Home and brighting up her day. He will be missed greatly by our family.
~ Dale Ostlien and Family
Abilene TX (6/6/2011)
Hi, Bluchers. I am so sorry to hear about Lennard's passing away. To me, he was "Uncle Blu". I spent several weekends at the Bluchers during high school and always enjoyed my time there. He was a great "taxi" when we had away BB games when Lavonne & I were cheerleaders in the '60! I was so glad to be able to see him and hear his music w/ the Crooners at Midland's school reunion June 2010. Lots of good memories I have, and I pray YOU have lots of great "remember-whens" and precious memories as you visit with family and friends during this difficult time. In Christ, Beryl (Addison) Geer
~ Beryl (Addison) Geer
PO Box 2018, Gillette, WY 82717 (6/6/2011)