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James Buck Obituary
James "Jim" A. Farrell, "The Professional Dog Walker," died July 4, 2013 with family at his side at the age of 81.
Jim established dog walking as a profession with his Jim Buck's School for Dogs. Begun in the 1960s, he trained and exercised packs of dogs on the streets of Manhattan for at least 40 years. His style was unique and unprecedented, including the idea of "fitness first" in respect for the animal that is the dog. Such a happening in NYC was Jim, that his work landed him on TV programs like the game show "To Tell the Truth" with panelists Tom Poston, Florence Henderson, Orson Bean, and Kitty Carlisle, in 1964, "The David Letterman Show" in 1985, and even Tokyo's popular morning show, "Tokio Today" in 1996. Jim also appeared in publications like "The New Yorker", "Life" and "The New York Times", as well as in many Associated Press news articles. Jim's career and its success surely inspired the ubiquitous dog walker of today.
Besides dogs, Jim loved the ocean. He had his Charter Boat Captain's license and enjoyed many a time on the water aboard his H.M.S. Fox I, II, III and IV over the years.
He leaves sons Jonathan, Christopher (Peg), and Graham, former wife Ann Sage, sisters Mother Debra Joseph and Connie, brother Richard, and many nieces, nephews and grand-nieces and -nephews. He now joins his sisters Rosamond Vernon and Barbara Moss, brother-in-law Ruppert Vernon, nephew Ruppert Vernon Jr. and parents Richard and Rosamond Farrell Buck.
Services will be held on July 25, 2013, at St. Mary's Church, 17 Pompton Ave., Pompton Lakes, NJ at 11 a.m., and then Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Hawthorne, NY. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Guiding Eyes for the Blind, 611 Granite Springs Road, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598, www.guiding-eyes.org, or Center for Urban Community Services, 198 East 121st Street, New York, NY 10035, www.cucs.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Buck
Gabriel Zamora
August 28, 2023
I worked for Jim Buck for 2 years from 1996-1998. I learned a lot from Jim. I still remember some of this advice. "Put $5 dollars a week in the bank and never take it out; You will thank me when a rainy day comes." Another one is dog-related, "Make sure you walk the dogs, and the Dogs don't walk you." I was already a dog lover but he taught me even more about how to train and show care for them. I still remember the incredibly fond stories he would share about his business, his son, life, and being respectful to all people. He was well respected on the streets of Manhattan and I also show this man RESPECT for all that he has contributed in the industry of training and caring for dogs. RIP friend.
Bernstein Sharon
September 11, 2022
I worked for Mr. Buck in 1965. I´m 71 years old now and looked up this obituary during a discussion of past jobs I did as a kid. Dog walking for Mr. Buck was exciting and I learned things That served me well in future pursuits. Thanks to Jim Buck.
Barbara James
July 28, 2022
When I was a broke Hunter College student of 19 he gave me a job. What an eye opener to go into some of the homes of the very wealthy to pick up and return their dogs, including some celebrities!
He is the man who gave me a lifelong love of the Great Dane breed.
I learned to groom, and will always remember the many walks in Central Park, when incredulous people would always ask, "Are those all YOUR dogs" ? And the one time we were asked to appear on the street in the beginning sequence of Midnight Cowboy! It was only a split second, but we were so proud!
Fly high, Jim. The pioneer of professional dog walking!
Rich Cunningham
April 22, 2014
To the Buck Family....I send my sincere condolences. Jim gave me my first job in the early sixties. My HS friend, Bill Purcell, asked if I was interested & I applied. Entering the apt. I was met by a pack - lead by Nimble & Lilly. He was a good man and I enjoyed working for him - the "first" Professional Dog Exerciser. I'm sorry for your loss.
Leo Oliveira
April 3, 2014
I had a pleasure to work for Jim Buck's School for Dogs in1988 and 1989. One of the best time of my life. GREAT MEMORIES, GREAT MAN. Miss YOU.
Jim's memorial card - back
August 20, 2013
Jim's memorial card - front
August 20, 2013
Cara Kenien
August 19, 2013
Dear Chris and Peg - I am so sorry for your loss. I truly enjoyed reading about Mr. Buck - he sounds like an incredible person who left an amazing legacy. I will keep you both in my thoughts and prayers and hope to see you soon. Sending you lots of love and prayers. Love, Cara
Chris Smith
August 19, 2013
Condolences to Jims family on his passing. The original obit. in the NYT did not mention funeral details. In reading this article I see there was a memorial service for Jim which I surely would've attended had I known. Just a few words in memory of Jim.
Jim was always a big supporter of people in law enforcement, especially those in the N.Y.P.D. and members of the 2-8 precinct.
Jim invited Police Officers of the 28 precinct up to his apartment on E.86th St. after we had marched in the St Patricks Day parade, to watch the rest of the parade from his apt. Jim had a nice spread of corned beef and salads ect. We felt priveliged to have a "front row seat" from which to view the parade. To reciprirocate for Jims generosity we presented Jim with a green NYPD-Emerald Society jacket and Associate Membership card for the Emerald Society. Jim couldnt've been happier and wore his jacket proudly.
Jim once introduced me to his son Graham who is an instructor with the seeing eye dog school for the blind. Graham, his associates, students and their guide dogs all met for a luncheon at a local restaurant on the Upper East Side. To see how well behaved the guide dogs were and how well they followed instruction was truly a credit to Graham. Jim could not have been more proud and was beaming with pride for for his son Graham.
Rest in peace Jim.
Kim Tillman
July 25, 2013
Chris & Peg, My prayers are with you during this time of your loss. May precious memories keep you at peace and a smile on your face. Sincerely, Kim Tillman
July 23, 2013
A book could be written about all my
remarkable siblings and forbears, but
better that they have their peace.
Richard J Buck Jr
July 23, 2013
Jim was a great mentor and friend to me -always encouraging me, listening, and sharing his tells of the ocean with me. I am so glad I got to know him and I wish you all the best and smooth sailing.
Sharon
Pat and Rick
July 22, 2013
Our family enjoyed reading the tributes honoring his life. We are very sorry for your loss, but happy for the blessings you were able to share.
Maria Maxwell Perry
July 19, 2013
My daughter Marie was dropped off every day after school at Jim and Annie's and would ridethe Great Danes till I finished my run. She told me that it was the best job I ever had. I agreed then and all the years have not changed my mind. Love to all, Maria Maxwell Perry
Maria Maxwell Perry
July 19, 2013
You are in our thoughts and prayers, hope to see you at the memorial service. Love All Around,
Maria Maxwell Perry
Anne Buck Vernon
July 19, 2013
Jonathan , Christopher , Graham, Aunt Ann and Peg,
All my love and condolences to an amazing family!
Here's to Uncle Jim who taught me important life lessons across the board!
Love to All!
Anne (Buck Vernon)
Anne Buck Vernon
July 19, 2013
Jonathan, Christopher, Graham, Aunt Ann and Peg
I remember Uncle Jimmy coming to our house and getting exciting wagon rides with the Great Danes :)
Also I went fishing with him in South Hampton in the Ocean, which hocked me to sailing and the love of the ocean for life.
Also I remember you three "boys" running around and laughing so hard!!
Your parents were my guide on how to raise/and be raised by active little ones- laugh at oneself and enjoy each moment :)
You all are in my thoughts prayers!
Chrissy Vetrano
July 17, 2013
To Graham and your family, I am so sorry for your loss. In viewing the articles and photo's, your Dad was an amazing man. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Guiying Li
July 17, 2013
Chris & Peg:
James was an incredible man. May God be with you in this time of your loss.
Love, Guiying
Marie Taaffe
July 17, 2013
To All of Jimmy's Family,
I had the privilege of having Jimmy in my life twice, and both times he changed it by being a mentor and friend. Our connection was the dogs. When I was in 1st grade my mother worked for him so my school bus dropped me off at Ann & Jimmy's. Ann was wonderful and kind and kept me out of trouble while Jimmy taught me how to train my first dog as I would give their dog Nimble hugs. Then later when I was grown, out of school and floundering a bit I saw him on the street and he gave me not only a job but a life. He taught me many life lessons all the while mentoring me on training dogs. I found him a brilliant, patient mentor and a true friend. He was a great boss and he is woven into the fabric of the Upper East Side. I have so many Jimmy stories but I just want to extend my condolences and prayers at this time. He was a talented gentleman and will be missed. God Bless.
Jonathan Buck
July 16, 2013
My father taught me ideas, simple truths, and lessons that were far more valuable than an expensive car, a fancy watch, or a smart phone. He was connected to the world before it became a tag line for marketing. First, his friends included the homeless on East 86th Street to the next United States Secretary of State. If you walked with him, he knew at least one person every ten blocks. Second, he was animate about reading newspapers, books, and rarely watched television - the static box. The printed word and journalists engaged his intellect. Third, he valued a hardy handshake, sincere eye contact, and quickly returning phone calls to clients and friends. Being direct, responsive, and personal was his mantra. These are a few of the reasons why people will remember him. The list could continue for several pages or perhaps a book. Imagine this moment a few decades ago, people valued conversations - not texting or email. My father's greatest asset was to know many people and listen to their stories. These essential conversations were his life compass and led him to a life wealthy in experiences and connections. Wealthy in imagination, energy, and passion.
PS Good Job keeping David Letterman on his toes.
July 15, 2013
The Fischer Family is sorry for your loss. Pete Fischer
July 15, 2013
So sorry for your loss. May you draw close to the hearer of prayer during this difficult time. Psalms 65:2
Carolyn & John Meserve
July 15, 2013
Jonathan,Chris & Peg, Graham, & Ann: Our sincere prayers and hopes for resolution and peace for each of you, as you process and mourn the loss of Jim. I know he has impacted each of you in very special ways. Much love & God Bless, CJ & John
1964
July 15, 2013
July 15, 2013
The loss of a parent is never easy. Know that you have friends who love & are there to support you
July 14, 2013
Chris and Peg,
You have our deepest condolances on the loss of James. He sounds like quite a guy. BJ and Charlie
Peg (aka Margaret) Buck
July 13, 2013
Please see also The New York Times' obituary profile story of Jim at http://www.nytimes.com/2013/07/13/nyregion/jim-buck-made-walking-dogs-a-job-dies-at-81.html. Thank you.
The family cannot thank enough the Times' Obituary Dept. editors and writer, Margalit Fox, for profiling Jim and helping the family honor and celebrate him.
July 13, 2013
A great gentleman, sportsman and friend. He is missed. Hamilton Hoge
Lane Orsak
July 13, 2013
Sorry for your loss. Much love for the family.
Brian and Theresa Murray
July 13, 2013
To Chris,Peg,Jon and Graham: We are very sorry for the loss of your father, We hope you all can find peace
July 12, 2013
An incredible man, one of the first professional dog walkers. His love of dogs inspired and continued in the legacy of his son, Graham, one of the great guide dog trainers in the country. So sorry for your loss, Ellin, Colin, & Logan Purcell
John & Holly McQuinn
July 12, 2013
He was a good man Chris, If you need anything let me know. Give my condolences to Peg Graham and Jonathan.
July 12, 2013
Peg & Chris. so sorry for your loss. I will be holding you close in prayer. God bless you both. Kathleen
Providence Torres
July 12, 2013
Dear Peg and Chris,
My prayers are with you both at this time of loss and sorrow. May the good Lord grant you peace and comfort.
whole family circa 1970s
Graham Buck
July 12, 2013
Graham Buck
July 12, 2013
DadwithChris
Graham Buck
July 12, 2013
Dad looks adoringly at mom
Graham Buck
July 12, 2013
walking dogs in Central Park
Graham Buck
July 12, 2013
dad3boyshark
Graham Buck
July 12, 2013
GrahamDadDarien, CT Circa 1990s
Graham Buck
July 12, 2013
Dad3boysharkhead
Graham Buck
July 12, 2013
dad3boys
July 12, 2013
July 12, 2013
Peg, Chris As always you are in our prayers at this sad time. Mom & Dad
Niki Rambias
July 12, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. It is hard to loose a parent. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Chris you are a great son and I'm sure he was very proud of you. All my love. Niki
July 12, 2013
July 12, 2013
M. Joseph
July 12, 2013
My condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Farrell Buck. May you draw close to the hearer of prayer during this difficult time. Psalm 65:2
July 12, 2013
Peg and Chris, I am so very sorry to hear about the loss of Chris's Dad. Both you and your family are in my prayers, may you feel the comfort of God's love and strength.
Denise
Pat & Dempie Shaul
July 12, 2013
Peg and Chris
We are so sorry to learn of Jim's passing. Keeping you and all the family in our prayers
July 12, 2013
July 12, 2013
July 12, 2013
Ann,Graham,Chris and John,
I am so very sorry for you loss, and am keeping you close in heart and prayer at this most difficult time.
In Deep Sympathy and with Great Love,
Kathy Z
July 12, 2013
On to calmer seas, Dad.
Maria Fenton-Kerimian
July 12, 2013
Dear Chris;
I am so sorry. Your dad seemed like a unique and special man.
July 12, 2013
Prayers and Love to the family.
God, the angels and all the animals in heaven have a new angel.
dad and I circa 90s Darien, CT
July 12, 2013
My dad was a brilliant man who made something out of nothing with his dog business. He lived his life fast and hard and went through many difficult times. Later it was the connection of dogs that brought he and I back together as father and son. Dad shared my enthusium and dedication for dog training and I knew that he was finally proud of me. He can be at peace now and probably is out on the great ocean and free. Love and miss you dad, Graham
Paula Napieral McGuigan
July 12, 2013
Peg and Chris, We are so sorry to hear about the loss of Chris' dad. We will continue to keep your family in our prayers. If you need anything, please let me know. You have been a great asset to me over the past few months.
July 12, 2013
On to calmer seas, Dad.
Love Chris
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