Michael E. Buerger ’73

Michael E. Buerger ’73 died on December 25, 2021, at home in Bowling Green, Ohio. Born in Oneonta, New York, Michael came to Dartmouth from Deerfield Academy. An English major, he worked after graduation in the Hanover area as a police officer and firefighter. In 1985 Michael earned an M.A. in liberal studies from the College. He began formal study in the field of criminal justice at St. Anselm’s College, where he earned a B.S., and Rutgers University School of Criminal Justice, where he received a second master’s and, in 1993, a doctorate in criminal justice. Michael conducted research and taught at Northeastern University, Pennsylvania State University, and the University of Wisconsin at Oshkosh, before spending the past 20 years as a member of the criminal justice faculty at Bowling Green State University. He taught undergraduate and master’s courses in policing, investigations, and forensics. Michael wrote or coauthored many scholarly articles and books, including two leading textbooks in his field, The Future of Policing and Policing: The Essentials. He enjoyed researching family history, collecting books, gardening, and rescuing animals. Michael’s family, friends, and colleagues appreciated his wit and humor, which brightened their days. He is survived by his partner, Belinda, stepchildren Harrison and Andrea, and brother Geoffrey.