James Lloyd Buechl
November 29, 1946 – May 6, 2025

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James Lloyd Buechl passed away on May 6, 2025, at the age of 78.

Born and raised in Rochester, New York, Jim was the son of the late Marjorie Lochner Buechl and George Harold Buechl. He was predeceased by his sister, Bonnie Kinney, and his brother-in-law, Duane Thornton. He is survived by his sister, Sue Thornton of Spencerport, NY; his aunt, Shirley Bonisteel of Rochester, NY; his brother-in-law Dave (Sandy) Kinney of Michigan; and many treasured nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Jim is lovingly remembered by his three children: Christopher Buechl of Springfield, MA; Annie Buechl and her husband Lukas Burgunder of Basel, Switzerland; and Hannah Shields, recently of Brookline, MA. He was a proud and adoring grandfather to Nova and Carter, who brought him great joy and light. In addition, Jim is survived by countless friends whose lives he has profoundly touched.

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Jim was married for over 20 years to Joan Dolan of Brooklyn, NY, and later, for over 20 years to Lynn Shields of Chestnut Hill, MA. For the last 3 years, he found companionship and joy in a relationship with Holly Sweet of Concord, MA.

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After graduating from Knox College in Galesburg, IL, where he studied philosophy, Jim made a courageous decision during the Vietnam War era to declare himself a conscientious objector. He declined to board the bus that would take him to military service and instead remained in Rochester, where he faced legal and public challenges for his stance. Ultimately, he was assigned to two years of community service in Boston—a pivotal time that shaped his path forward. It was during this time that he discovered a passion for housing justice and decided to pursue a legal career.

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Jim earned his law degree from Northeastern University School of Law and went on to make an enduring impact through his work in affordable housing. He became the first General Counsel of the Greater Boston Housing Corporation (now The Community Builders), helping to develop hundreds of affordable housing units. Later, in private practice, he continued to advance this mission, providing legal support to nonprofit housing developers across Greater Boston. His nearly 50-year legal career helped thousands of families access secure, dignified housing.

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Over the years, Jim made his home in Boston, Brookline, and Newton, spending a decade or more in each community. More recently, he settled in Waltham. In all places, he became a deeply connected and engaged member of the community, forming lasting friendships and contributing actively to civic life. Whether organizing in Audubon Circle, participating in Unitarian congregations, or attending shared men’s groups, Jim brought people together with his warmth, wit, and humor.

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He also cherished time spent at a shared family cabin in East Corinth, Vermont, where he found great joy in the peaceful surroundings and especially in mowing the meadow using his beloved tractor, Gertie. Beyond his professional and civic life, Jim found joy in the everyday: sailing, tennis, traveling, reading, American roots music, hockey, the Boston Red Sox, skiing, and spending quality time with friends and family. He had a wicked sweet tooth and loved taste testing any and all desserts, whether they were at a new bakery or his sister’s homemade Christmas cookies.

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Jim emphasized the importance of creating memories and instilled this value in everyone around him. His legacy is one of principle, purpose, and love. He will be remembered for the countless lives he touched through his work, his friendship, and his unwavering belief in justice and compassion.

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Jim passed away in his home from a heart attack. Doctors said aside from some early signs, he went quickly without suffering. A memorial will be held on Saturday May 17th. See below for details.

Rest in peace, Jim. You worked hard, and now it is time for you to sit back and watch others thrive through your legacy and accomplishments.

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Celebration of Life for James Lloyd Buechl

Location:
Boston Marriott Newton
2345 Commonwealth Avenue
Newton, MA 02466

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Nearest Train Stop:
Riverside on the Green (D) Line

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Date & Time:
Saturday, May 17th
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Please arrive around 10:45am

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Dress Code:
Come as You Are — Thoughtfully Dressed – Please join us dressed neatly and comfortably, in a style that reflects the warmth and celebration of the day.

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Parking:
Free for all guests

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Bathrooms:
Located inside the hotel on the second floor

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Setting:
We will gather in a temperature-controlled tent on the Charles River, with outdoor access and a lovely view of the water. The space is handicapped accessible.

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Program

• Welcome / Reading of the Obituary
   

• Reading
   

• Speeches
   

• Music with Slideshow Tribute
   

• Open Floor Sharing
  (You’re welcome to share a funny story, heartfelt memory, or reflection on Jim’s life)
   

Reception

We invite everyone to stay, reconnect, and celebrate Jim together. A buffet lunch will be served, with preference for family and close friends.