Michael Wayne Pulcher

Michael Wayne Pulcher, 51, of Columbia, IL, passed away on May 30, 2025, at SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital. He was born on May 15, 1974, in Groton, Connecticut. Wayne grew up in Columbia, IL and spent endless days at his family farm in East Carondelet, IL, where he developed a lifelong appreciation for hard work, a genuine love for farm life and being outdoors. He graduated from Columbia High School and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences from Central Methodist University. A talented athlete, Wayne played multiple sports throughout his life, including earning a scholarship to play college football at Central Methodist. Driven by a love for craftsmanship and sustainability, Wayne founded Architectural Reclamation Services Inc. Through his work, he combined his creativity with a commitment to preserving materials, finding new life for items that might otherwise have ended up in landfills. Whether restoring, rebuilding, or simply tinkering, Wayne was happiest when working with his hands-and was never without a new ‘project’ or two or ten. Wayne was known for his quick wit, infectious humor, and big-hearted nature. A true kid at heart, he brought laughter and light to every room. Annual trips to Cape Hatteras, NC, were a cherished family tradition, where he loved surf and deep-sea fishing. He also enjoyed afternoons at the pond and lively rounds of golf-always with the “best” scorecard in hand. An enthusiastic coach and supporter, Wayne dedicated many years to coaching youth baseball, basketball, and football. He took immense pride in cheering on his children, nieces, and nephews from the sidelines. One of his favorite stories to share was catching a foul ball at a St. Louis Cardinals game, proudly earning a “Foul Ball Contract,” which he talked about often and with a smile. Above all, family was his greatest joy. He married the love of his life, Cara, and together they raised three wonderful children. Together they built a life full of laughter, love, and his trademark one-liners. Wayne’s legacy of laughter, mischief making, hard work, and deep love for his family will be cherished forever. Wayne is survived by his loving wife, Cara (née Fassel) Pulcher; his children, Garret, Macie, and Marlie Pulcher; his sister, Michelle (Mike) Fink; his brother, Chris (Hannah) Pulcher; brother-in-law, Chris (Patricia) Fassel; aunts and uncles, Wanda & Rick Gangluff and Carol & Dick Gillet; grandmother-in-law, Mary Fassel; numerous nephews and nieces as well as his beloved dogs, Ozzy and Middy. He is also remembered fondly by extended family and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his Father, Dennis Pulcher; Mother, Diane Kersten; Father-in-Law, Dennis Fassel; Mother-in-Law, Michele Fassel; Grandparents, Joseph and Teresa Conrad and Eugene and Mary Pulcher. Visitation will be Friday, June 6, 2025, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm, at Leesman Funeral Home, Columbia, IL. Services will be held Friday, June 6, 2025, at 6:00 pm with Jim Jarvis officiating. In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions be directed to the family, checks payable to Cara Pulcher. For more information, please access our website, www.leesmanfuneralhome.com. Arrangements were handled by Leesman Funeral Home.

Michael Wayne Pulcher

May 15, 1974 - May 30, 2025