Bernard “Buddy” Bauscher, Jr., passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, October 26, 2023 at age 76.

A lifelong resident of New Haven County, Buddy lived a full life centered around his family and focused on doing right with the world. Buddy is predeceased by his beloved wife Carol Magdon and his dear son Thomas (Tommy). He is survived by his son, Max Bauscher, and Max’s fiancé Kara Fitzgerald. Additionally, Buddy is survived by his sister Bernice and brother-in-law Scott Mason of Moorehead City, NC; and his sister Margaret and brother-in-law Sterling Close, of Alpharetta, GA.

Buddy’s happiest days were the ones spent on his sailboat with his family and friends. He loved charting a course and exploring the open seas, especially if they led him to the famous Aldo’s Bakery Boat near Block Island. In more recent years, Buddy got his fill of boating by researching, reading and watching videos of sailboats daily. In addition to sailing and camping, Buddy loved learning new things, talking politics and baking cupcakes.

Buddy worked a number of jobs in his life including a time in the United States Navy and as the owner of Robin Hood Dry Cleaners in Stratford, CT. Outside of his day job, Buddy enjoyed coaching local sports including football and baseball, and still talked about his glory days as Coach Bauscher. He remembered many of his former players fondly but, of course, thought the best kids on the field were his pride and joy– his sons Tommy and Max.

His love for Carol was deep and he loved the life they made together. Even through his final days, Buddy’s eyes would light up when he spoke of Carol. He cherished the opportunity to share all his favorite qualities about her and their wonderful memories with Tommy. Though they left this world too early, Buddy never stopped holding both Carol and Tommy close to his heart. Later in his life, Buddy found joy with his roommates, Max, Kara and Linus (the cat), making jokes and having family dinners in their home in Hamden. Buddy loved retelling old stories and creating new memories with Max and Kara. It is in those memories and laughs that he will live long beyond his years here on earth.

His family invites you to honor Buddy at a wake that will be held at The Havens Family North Haven Funeral Home,36 Washington Avenue, North Haven, CT on Thursday, November 2, 2023 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Buddy was not a man of pomp and circumstance, so rather than a formal funeral, we will have a short memorial service in his honor at 6:30 p.m. during the wake on November 2.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Guilford Youth Football, 800 Village Walk, Suite 301, Guilford, CT 06437.