John D. Buckley's Obituary
John D. Buckley, age 75, of North Ridgeville, passed away suddenly Friday, September 1, 2023. He was born in Cleveland and had been a resident of North Ridgeville for over 70 years; graduating with the Class of ’66 and continuing his education at LCCC and Baldwin-Wallace University. He was a member of the US Army’s Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol (LRRP) serving in Vietnam, the Air Force’s 200th Red Horse unit based in Port Clinton, and the Army National Guard’s Engineering Squadron based in Lorain. He hung up his uniforms and retired after 19 ½ years serving our country. He also worked as a Journeyman Die Maker for General Motors for many years before retiring in 2006. John was a lifelong member of Chapter 49 of the Disabled American Veterans, the Avon VFW, and the UAW. He is survived by his wife of 53 years Jackie (nee Will); Daughters Heidi (Buckley) Pease (Greg Safran) of Brunswick and Mindy Buckley of North Olmsted; sister Bonnie (Buckley) Jennison of New Hampshire; brother Mike McClain of Brunswick; and many nieces and nephews. In his younger years, John enjoyed being part of a close trio of friends with Bernie Baldauf and Tom Webster. They spent time bowling, playing pool, and causing a ruckus wherever they went. In his later years, he continued to spend time drinking coffee with Bernie and arguing about politics and who would be picking up the check. After retirement, John enjoyed golfing, reading, puzzles, and sailing. In the fall and winter months, John spent his Saturdays watching the Buckeyes and his Sundays watching the Browns. As an avid traveler, he enjoyed showing his loving wife all the amazing places the world has to offer. With his eldest daughter, Heidi, he enjoyed Disney adventures, the Marvel Universe, and keeping up on everything Star Wars. His love for aviation was passed down to his youngest daughter, Mindy, from their Daddy-Daughter ice cream dates to watch the airplanes take off and land at Cleveland Hopkins Airport. Most memorably, he loved to sing and dance along to his favorite song – “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” by The Hollies. He was preceded in death by his parents John B. Buckley and Alice “Lela” McClain (nee King-Buckley). Family will receive friends Wednesday from 5-8 pm at Bogner Family Funeral Home, 36625 Center Ridge Rd, North Ridgeville; and Thursday from 10 am until time of service at 11 am. Burial will follow precisely at 1:15pm at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery with full military honors. Memorial contributions may be made to a Veteran’s Charity of your choosing. For further information or to leave an online memorial please visit www.bognerfamilyfuneralhome.com
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