Stella L. Buchka

Stella L. Buchka of Cuba, Missouri, was born on November 12, 1947, in Bourbon, Missouri, to the loving parents John and Ruth (Adair) Bridgeman. She departed this life peacefully at St. Luke’s Hospital in Chesterfield on December 10, 2025, at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.

On the beautiful day of March 12, 1965, Stella married her beloved husband, Wilbert J. Buchka, in Cuba, Missouri. Together, they created a warm and nurturing home, welcoming two wonderful children, Ann and Mike, who were the joys of their lives.

Stella dedicated her life to hard work, primarily as a factory worker, contributing her talents to various employers including Paramount Apparel, Brown Shoe, Echo Supply, Jim’s Cleaning Service, and Dana Brake Parts. Her strong spirit and commitment to her family were evident in all that she did. Stella found community and friendship in her faith, she attended the Cherryville Church of God and Trinity Chapel.

Stella was a true partner to Wilbert, and together they shared a passion for creativity, often building and crafting together. In addition to her handiwork, Stella was known for her exceptional cooking and baking skills. From delicious pies and homemade bread to her famous chicken and dumplings, her culinary creations brought joy to many.

Stella is preceded in death by her cherished parents, John and Ruth; her beloved husband, Wilbert; and her siblings, Richard Bridgeman, Lola Mae (Ernie) Holland, Wayne Bridgeman, Johnny (Teri) Bridgeman, Carl (Betty) Bridgeman, Lawrence Bridgeman, Rodger Bridgeman, Sr., Haskel Bridgeman, as well as sister-in-law Glenda Bridgeman and brothers-in-law Louis and Richard Buchka.

She leaves behind her loving children, Ann (Donald) Williams of Fairmont City, Illinois, and Mike (Sandy) Buchka of Cuba. Stella will be dearly remembered by her grandchildren, Bobby Scott Hinson, Bobby Michael Hinson, James Williams, Anthony Williams, Martin Williams, Michael Buchka, Barry Richards, Jeffery Buchka, Joe and Jackie Baumgartner, Tiffany and Logan Fleming, and Katherine Whipple. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Malachi, Chase, Zen, Grace, Savanna, Kashton, Eleven, Zehn, Dylan, Jacon, Meloda, Parker, Everleigh, Jeremiah, Emmalynn, Sofia, Abel, Anthony, Ashton, Xavier, Aden, and Jordan.

Stella is also survived by her beloved siblings, including Orville (Lois) Bridgeman of Newbury, CA, Larry (Wanda) Bridgeman, Clifford (Delphia) Bridgeman, and Lester Bridgeman; Beverly (Jay) Hanes and Sharon (Dallas) Britton, all of Cuba; and sisters-in-law Norma Bridgeman, Linda Bridgeman, and Brenda Bridgeman, along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many friends who will miss her dearly.

In accordance with her family's wishes, Stella will be cremated, with a celebration of her life to be announced after the holidays.

In remembrance of Stella, the family invites memorial contributions to be made to Cherryville Church of God or the American Heart Association.

The Mizell Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family of Stella L. Buchka, whose spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she loved.