John Michael "Bucky" Buchanan

John Michael “Bucky” Buchanan, 75, passed away on March 18, 2026. He was born on January 9, 1951, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Jack and Rose Buchanan.

John proudly served in the United States Army from 1971-1973. Following his honorable discharge, he moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where he began a 32-year career as a police officer with the Phoenix Police Department. After retiring from law enforcement, John continued to serve his community as the Director of Security at Brophy College Preparatory for nearly two decades. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Ottawa University.

John enjoyed spending time with the people he loved, often sharing a bear claw and coffee with family and friends. If you were extra special to him, he would make your favorite pie from scratch. He was generous beyond measure and accepting of everyone—he loved you no matter what. A selfless man, John was always willing to help in any way he could. He led by example and always wanted the best for others.

He cared deeply about the Brophy community and took great pride in helping to shape a generation of young men through his mentorship and guidance. John loved riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle and meeting up with his police family for their “donut summits”. His devotion to his children and grandchildren brought joy to all who knew him.

John is survived by his sister, Mary Kallemeyn; his brothers, Jim Buchanan, Steve Buchanan, Kevin Buchanan, and Tim Buchanan; his sons, Mark Buchanan and Scott Buchanan; and his two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Buchanan, and his mother, Rose Buchanan.

A Viewing will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85018.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 4715 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85012.

He will be laid to rest at National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona during a private ceremony. 

Donations

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Brophy College Prep via Memorial & Honoree Gifts.

https://www.brophyprep.org/giving/support-brophy/memorial-and-honoree-gifts