Michael G. Buchen, Class of 1960, died on June 23, 1990 in El Segundo, Calif. after a long illness. He was 51, retired from the Air Force as a lieutenant colonel, and had worked for Martin Marietta.

During his Air Force career, he served as a navigator at Hickam AFB, Hawaii; CCK AB, Taiwan; and for the 4900 Test Group at Kirtland AFB, N.M. on the C-135. He also served as a project officer at Los Angeles AFS, Calif. with the Space System Division and the Space and Missile Systems Organization.

He earned a master's degree in aeronautics and astronautics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1962 and completed Squadron Officers School and Air Command and Staff College. His decorations included the Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal, three Air Medals, the Joint Service Commendation Medal and the Air Force Commendation Medal. He served with the Air Force from 1960 to 1980.

Buchen was born Jan. 18, 1939 in St. Louis to Herman and Talithia (Mittendort)Buchen. He was married to Cecelia Rimassa, who survives. He is also survived by a son, Christofer, of Los Angeles; and a daughter, Gretchen, of El Segundo; three brothers and a sister. Burial was in the Air Force Academy Cemetery.