R.J. BUCKLES

BUCKLES, R.J. (Buck)
February 16, 1923 - July 19, 2016
In loving memory of Robert James (Buck) Buckles, who passed away surrounded by family at home at age 93 on July 19, 2016 in Ottawa, ON. He was born in Middletown, Ohio, where his Canadian father built brick industrial chimneys. He then spent most of his youth in Whitevale and Green River outside of Toronto. Beloved husband of Elinor (Craig) whom he married in 1991 and of Doreen Ryan (married 1947, predeceased 1989). Dearly loved by sons Steve (Sarah), Ottawa, ON; Daniel (Debra), Ottawa, ON; and Casey (Hilda), Portugal Cove, NL, and stepchildren Louise and Bob. Beloved brother of Marie, Bruce and Barbara Ann, predeceased. Grandfather to Jessica and Ian; Daniel and Ryan; and Toby and Melissa. Great-grandfather to Ella. Special brother-in- law to Sherrill Ryan and Roger Ouellette, Ed and Sheila Tierney, and Phyllis Gareis. Buck was a Spitfire pilot and veteran of World War II. He spent his 20th and 21st birthdays in Prisoner of War camps, including the camp where the Great Escape occurred. When the war ended Buck returned to Canada, completed a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Guelph (entomology) and studied at the Ontario College of Education. He then settled in Toronto, where he headed a high school science department. During this time he flew Vampires with the RCAF Reserves. Upon rejoining the Air Force in 1955, he and his growing family lived in towns and cities across Canada and from 1970-72 was stationed in Lahr, West Germany. Back in Canada, he flew Search and Rescue missions before joining Transport Canada where he worked until his retirement in 1988. One of his favourite places was Island 899 on Lake Temagami. It became a touchstone for the Buckles family after his first wife, Doreen, introduced Buck and his parents to that part of northern Ontario. Buck enjoyed golf, the property he and Elinor bought in Naples, FL and their home at Lake Couchiching. He was a man who liked to tell stories and give toasts, and will be dearly missed by family and friends. Donations in memory of Buck may be made to the Shepherds of Good Hope. A memorial service will be held at Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa, followed by a committal service in Whitevale Cemetery. Condolences, donations or tributes may be made at www.tubmanfuneralhomes.com