Dennis Ward Buckridge

Dennis Ward Buckridge, 75, passed away suddenly, Saturday, September 20, 2025 at his home in Neosho Rapids, Kansas.

He was born, March 15, 1950 in Olivet, Kansas the son of Ward and Florence Clark Buckridge. His family moved to Neosho Rapids when he was just one year old and he has lived there the remainder of his life.

He attended Hartford High School and graduated with the Class of 1968.

Dennis married the love of his life, Julia Trace on June 21, 1969 in Emporia, Kansas. They made their home in Neosho Rapids and have spent their entire married life in the same location.

As a young man, Dennis worked briefly at I.B.P. and later for Don Miller Motors as a body man. He always had a love of cars and over the years he built numerous race and derby cars.

He had a long career as a driver for EVCO beginning in 1972 and spanning over four decades. After leaving EVCO in 2015 he drove a dry mix tanker, suppling area concrete plants with concrete powder. He drove a school bus for the Emporia School system before taking a position with the Lebo Schools as a part-time and substitute bus driver, a position that was dear to heart and filled him with joy. When not driving he could be found near Julia at Spic N Span Cleaners in Emporia. A place that gave him an opportunity to visit with customers as they came.

Dennis will live on in the hearts and precious memories of his wife Julia of their home; a sister in Emporia, numerous extended family and a community of friends. He was preceded in death by their son, Ron on March 30th of this year.

Dennis wished to be cremated. He will be inurned at Mt. Hope Cemetery in the Spring. The family will schedule a graveside service for both Dennis and his son Ron which will be announced at a later date.