John Bucklar (September 13, 1945 - December 08, 2024)

In loving memory of
John Bucklar
  • September 13, 1945
  • -
  • December 08, 2024

  • Obituary
  • Sign Tribute Wall
  • Send an E-Card
  • Light a Candle
  • Send Flowers
  • Photos

Obituary

John (known to most as Jack) was born on September 13, 1945 in Peoria, Illinois to Charles and Eileen Bucklar. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education at The University of Illinois, where he also met his future wife, Diane. After marrying Diane in July 1968, Jack joined the Army and began his tour in Vietnam (July 1969 – July 1970), where he proudly fought for his country and earned a Bronze Star for heroic achievement. After returning home, Jack started a pharmaceutical sales career at Roche Laboratories that lasted 38 years. During this time, Jack and Diane had three children and moved frequently, calling 5 states home.

Jack loved sports, playing hockey at the University of Illinois as well as for a semi-professional team in Peoria. He also was an avid golfer, playing as often as he could, and was fortunate enough to have played a round at Augusta National. He rooted for all the Chicago professional teams, but his favorite teams were always the ones his children were on. If he wasn’t coaching them, he made it known by his very distinct whistle that he was there to cheer them on.

Jack was a loving and supportive father. He lived and preached the motto “always do your best and never give up on your goals.” He enjoyed time with friends, and was always prepared with a joke. He was the life of the party with his humor and dance moves, and never missed an opportunity to dance with Diane to “A Little Ditty ‘bout Jack and Diane.” He particularly enjoyed time with his family, and always brought so much life and energy to any family gathering (camping trips to Jellystone Parks, Christmas parties, Spring Breaks in Panama City Beach). His six grandchildren lovingly called him Papa. They cherish the memories of visits to the neighborhood parks, building snowmen during the Illinois winters, all the birthday parties he attended for them and eating “Papa’s famous eggs”. They still laugh at his silly nicknames and all his corny jokes.

Jack is preceded in death by his wife (Diane), his parents (Charles and Eileen), and his siblings (Charles Jr and MaryAnn). He is survived by his brother Bill, his children Christine (Mark) Nelson, John (Marie) Bucklar and Jeff (Andrea) Bucklar, and his grandchildren Ashley, Brooke, Carly, Jack, Zoe and Connor.

His family has organized a memorial service to honor Jack’s life and military service at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL on January 17 at 12:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to:

Cornerstone Hospice

Homepage

Wounded Warrior Project

https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org


Send flowers to the family to show you care. Order Now

Tribute Wall

Leave a reply



Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  1. Sandra L Bergheimer says:
    10 Jan 2025
    Jack (and his lovely wife Diane) were our neighbors when we made our permanent move to The Villages. They were a fun couple, especially when Jack would tell his silly jokes! They are together again, and in peace.

  2. John Bucklar lit a candle:
    08 Jan 2025
    Lit since January 8, 2025 at 1:04:03 PM

  3. John Bucklar posted an image:
    08 Jan 2025
    Miss ya Pops
    Miss ya Pops

  4. Brad Jacobsen says:
    08 Jan 2025
    The Bucklar house was like a second home to me when I was younger. Mr. And Mrs. Bucklar were like family. So many great memories, Jack always had us all laughing. He will be missed greatly.

  5. Patti Dalton lit a candle:
    08 Jan 2025
    Lit since January 8, 2025 at 1:14:26 PM

  6. Jeff posted an image:
    08 Jan 2025


  7. Mike and Sherry McCavitt says:
    08 Jan 2025
    We’re so sorry to hear about Jack. Mike grew up with Jack and were the best of friends. Diane was my loving college roommate and we had an extra special bond. In fact, they fixed Mike and I up and 55 years later we still thank them and love them. They were so special and will always hold a loving place in our hearts and prayers.

  8. Jeff Bucklar posted an image:
    08 Jan 2025
    I love and miss you Dad!
    I love and miss you Dad!

Send an E-Card

Please select an e-card

    Required fields are marked *
     

    Note: The code below resets with every submit of the form
    captcha