John Walter Buza

John Walter Buza, 74, of Sun City West, Arizona, passed away at his home on October 10, 2025.

Born in Portland, Oregon, on January 24, 1951, to the late Lillie (Sellars) and Walter Buza, John moved with his family to Alaska in 1959, the year of its statehood. He grew up in Wasilla and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Geology from the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, and a Master of Science in Geology from the University of Washington.

John built a distinguished 35-year career as an international petroleum geologist, working for major companies including ExxonMobil, BP, and Chevron. His expertise and adventurous spirit took him across the globe, and he lived abroad for over 20 years, contributing to significant energy projects in Norway, Nigeria, Thailand, Kuwait, and beyond. His love of travel extended far beyond his work — throughout his life, he eagerly sought out friends old and new wherever his journeys took him.

After retiring to Sun City West, John embraced a new chapter as an enthusiastic host and party planner. He delighted in organizing his high school reunions in Wasilla and entertaining family and friends in his lovely Arizona backyard, which he cultivated with great pride. Filled with desert plants and frequented by wildlife, his backyard was a warm gathering place for those in his community. He had an impressive and often amusing way with words — his colorful descriptions and storytelling brought humor and life to every occasion.

John was deeply devoted to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, serving as a lodge officer and committee chairman, and achieving Diamond level recognition from the Elks National Foundation for his exceptional generosity. He was also a loyal, lifelong fan of the band the Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys.

He is survived by his children, Steve, Nadia, and Chloe; his granddaughter, Kaia; his sister, Dianna (Randy) Luffberry; his nephew, Rob Belden; and his niece, Michelle (Jeremy) Grimes. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lillie and Walter Buza.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in John's memory to the Elks National Foundation, an organization to which he was passionately dedicated.