Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

March 29, 2024

CHARLOTTE - Etienne “Ed” Büchner, 78, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 29, 2024, at Atrium Pineville Hospital. Ed was surrounded by his family and friends during his approximately four-month battle to recover from a severe stroke. He succumbed to complications of that stroke.

Ed was born on August 18, 1945, in Middleburg, Cape Province, South Africa, son of Billy and Bee Büchner.  He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. 

Ed graduated from Stellenbosch University in South Africa where he double majored in Mathematics and Applied Mathematics. Stellenbosch was a special place where he met Paula, his wife and life partner of 55 years. His mathematical education was vital for his life as an entrepreneur.  With optimism and drive he enjoyed a long career in multiple areas.  He was part owner of a Computer Bureau, then purchased and ran an Automotive Sales and Services business prior to emigrating with his family to the United States in 1986.  Ed then utilized his knowledge of business on multiple continents and started an Import and Export company. He later transitioned to Financial Services. He worked until his stroke in December.  Outside of work he was dedicated to service in his church and community. He was a lifelong blood and platelet donor, and even organized blood drives.  He worked in Steven’s Ministry providing companionship and social support to patients suffering illness.  He and Paula were steadfast workers for a Food Rescue program of prepared food that both reduced food waste and supported neighbors with food insecurity through Shelters.  He loved life and will be remembered for his dedication and love to his family, volunteer work, and his positive outlook on life.

Ed is survived by his wife, Paula Büchner; his children, Marijke and her husband, Brad Strouse, Anne-Bee and her husband, Rich Van Meter, his son-in-law William Poole; his seven grandchildren, Alexei and Chloe Strouse, Maddie and Arie Van Meter, Lucas, Millie and Sehayla Skidmore; and one great-granddaughter, Raelyn Skidmore. He is also survived by his brother and his wife, Nicol and Ellen Büchner and nieces Gerda, Arina, and Nikki. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Ellisia Poole; his grandson Nikolai Strouse, and parents, Billy and Bee Büchner. 

May His Memory Be Eternal.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on a Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at Sharon Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, NC. The family will receive friends at the church immediately following the service. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be offered in memory of Ed to Sharon Presbyterian Church, 5201 Sharon Road, Charlotte, NC 28210. 

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.