It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of John Frederick Buck on October 23, 2024. Born on March 24, 1942, John lived a life full of kindness and generosity. A devoted family man, he leaves behind his beloved spouse, Carole Buck (Pickering), four children (Robin, Tracy, Gary and Craig) and their spouses (Pat, Fred, Karen and Tavia), 11 grandchildren (Nathan, Chris, Derek, Josh, Caroline, Leah, Kendyll, Gryffin, Taylor, Mason and Kody), 6 great grandchildren (Raegan, Addison, Theodore, Nolan, Lucy and Beau), his sister, Virginia Lewis (Buck) and his cousin, Raymond Buck.

John was born and raised in North Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. John and Carole met in the church youth group at the age of 15. Known for their jitterbug, Glen Miller’s “In the Mood” guaranteed an admiring audience circled around them at high school dances, proms, weddings and celebrations. Always the first on the dance floor, John’s energy and enthusiasm were contagious.

John’s Army ROTC service at Penn State led to a two-year overseas duty in Germany. John and Carole enjoyed traveling and exploring Europe, returning to Pennsylvania to welcome Robin in 1966 and Tracy in 1968. With John’s Animal Husbandry degree and military experience, he secured a job with Merck Sharp and Dohme. His expertise helped develop the Safety and Assessment department, retiring 35 years later as a director.

When a Chalfont fixer-upper could no longer hold their growing family, John and Carole, Robin, Tracy, and newborn twins, Craig and Gary moved to Lansdale, Pennsylvania. Shady Lane became the cornerstone for family dinners, holiday celebrations, softball catches, soccer games, watermelon seed-spitting contests, around-the-table-ping pong, kitchen dances and laughter.

As his children’s softball and soccer coach, John’s outgoing and friendly nature was known to all. Whether organizing Homerun Derby Day, volunteering on the Montgomery County Park Board or leading his family in a synchronized bike ride, shouts of “Hey, Mr. Buck!” peppered every interaction.

John will always be known for his love of animals, work ethic, commitment to family and high standards. He never asked of anyone more than he was willing to give. His family knew they could count on him in the stands of band competitions, theater performances and sports games. Each year his garden expanded to eventually include snap peas, beans, zucchini, scallions and over 30 varieties of tomatoes. He “never met a beer he didn’t like” and considered every meal to be “Good Stuff!”

In 2001, John and Carole’s dream of retiring to Hilton Head, South Carolina became a reality. He quickly transitioned into the role of retired Pop-pop, double solitaire or tennis partner, fishing mate, Hearts opponent, and beach reader. Their children and grandchildren happily traveled to soak up the South Carolina sun and fun.

John’s compassionate spirit and warm smile will forever be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alzheimer’s research. The family is planning a future private memorial in Hilton Head, South Carolina.

As we mourn John’s passing, we also celebrate his life, cherishing the memories he left behind. He left a void, but his enduring love will forever be with us. Rest in peace, John.

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