It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael J. Buma, a devoted farmer, cattle hauler and beloved family man, who departed this world far too soon on April 22, 2024, at the age of 53. His untimely passing has left a profound void in the lives of those who knew him, but his memory will forever be cherished and celebrated.
Born in Vancouver, Washington, on Oct. 4, 1970, to Ed and Margaret Buma, Mike was the youngest of six boys. Raised on a dairy farm, his love for animals and agriculture ran deep, a passion that was instilled in him from a young age and only grew stronger with time.
Mike graduated from Battle Ground High School in 1989. He married his high school sweetheart, Amy Whitney, in 1991. They were blessed with a son and twin daughters. They built their farmhouse in 2001 and began raising livestock and selling hay. Always willing to sacrifice time and sleep for his family, Mike started his own business, Mike Buma Farms, and began trucking in 1995.
Beyond his love for farming, Mike was first and foremost a devoted family man. He valued nothing more than the time spent with his loved ones, and his family was the driving force behind everything he did. Whether he was working tirelessly hauling hay or cattle, sharing stories around the dinner table, or simply enjoying quiet moments together, his love for his family was unwavering and unconditional.
Mike was known not only for his dedication to hard work, but also for his kindness, generosity and unwavering love for those around him. His blue eyes and his smile could light up a room, and he had a spirit that touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a man of God and attended Charter Oak Church where he enjoyed being a part of the Facilities Development Team, sharing his knowledge and time. His legacy of love, hard work and devotion to family will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to have had him in their lives.
Mike leaves behind a family who adored him beyond measure. He is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Amy; his beloved children, Bradley (Kayla) Buma, of Battle Ground, Rachel (Renato) Buma, of Vancouver, and Justine (Joshua) Steffanson, of Yacolt; two grandsons, Ayden and Walter; his mother, Margaret Buma ,of Vancouver; brothers, Donald (Vicki) Buma, of Amboy, Edward (Jackie) Buma, of Ridgefield, Dale (June) Buma, of Battle Ground, and Tony (Desiree) Buma, of Fairbanks, Alaska; and a host of relatives and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward Buma; his brother, Ronald Buma; and a nephew, Cody Buma.
A celebration of Mike’s life will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 11, 2024, at Charter Oak Church, where we will come together to honor his memory and the legacy he leaves behind. If you would like to honor Mike’s lifetime of hard work, generosity and friendship, the family requests donations be made to the Facility Development Team at Charter Oak Church, 12212 NE 299th St., Battle Ground, WA, 98604. A viewing will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. May 9, 2024, at Layne’s Funeral Home in Battle Ground.
If you have a memory to share with the family, please email it to cowtaximike@gmail.com.
