Lee C. Buchanan

Lee Buchanan, 91, passed away peacefully on April 24th, 2025 in Bellevue, Iowa surrounded by the love of his family and caregivers. Lee was born on September 22, 1933 to Ernie and Norma (Hagg) Buchanan in Rockford, Illinois. Lee grew up in Edgerton, Wisconsin and then moved to Brodhead, Wisconsin where he graduated from Brodhead High School. This is where he began a remarkable life journey defined by his many talents, passions, and love for his family.

He began his career working for the Beloit Corporation and later became a commercial airplane and helicopter pilot. He flew for Omniflight Helicopters before founding his own aviation company, Blackhawk Helicopters. His talents didn’t stop in the sky—he also found himself building homes, working for the Bendix Corporation and as the head steamfitter for the Rockford School District where he eventually retired and moved to Bellevue, Iowa. Lee was a man of extraordinary mechanical skills and endless curiosity. He was a builder, creator and dreamer of many things including boats, race cars, homes, custom stone fireplaces, airplanes and anything else he could imagine. His artistic spirit led him to become a master wood carver later in life. However, racing was his passion. Whether it was go-carts, boats or sports cars, if it had an engine he wanted to go fast in it. He shared his love of speed with his two sons. He was known to say he got to have a second childhood in his seventies and eighties when he built an airplane and constructed a rear-engine Lola sports car in his garage. He found so much joy getting up everyday to work on his projects. He also found peace and pride in nature, especially at his beloved home along the Mississippi River, where he spent countless days boating and enjoying the water.

He was a Christian man of great integrity and had a great love for his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Rosary and his brothers Craig, Ted and Mike. He is survived by his first wife Janet (Williams) Thompson, children Bruce (Judy) Buchanan and Craig (Diane) Buchanan; grandchildren Brian(Allison) Buchanan and Brittany (Travis) Hasse; and great-grandchildren Lucas and Jacob. He also leaves behind his brother David (Susan) Buchanan as well as his cherished companion and soulmate Margaret Blaser. He loved her beautiful family like his own.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to his caregivers and to Hospice of Jackson County for their exceptional care and kindness. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hospice of Jackson County, Inc.
Local arrangements entrusted with Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.