Craig "Buck" Buckner

There will be an additional celebration of life service scheduled in California in the coming weeks.

Craig Jay Buckner- “Buck” 62, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2024 in his home in Ovid, MI after a short battle with Stage IV lung & brain cancer. He was surrounded by his wife, children and brothers. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Cathy & his mom and dad. Craig is survived by his wife Carla Buckner. His daughters Amanda Buckner (Jorge ) and Nicole Pagala (Ray) & Destinee Roberts Buckner. Grandchildren – Sophia, Abigail, Alonzo, Enzo, Jorge Jr and Ayla. He is also survived by his older brothers Mike Buckner (Debra), Gary Buckner and Larry Buckner (Carol). His extended family includes his Stepchildren, TJ (Sarah) & Kim along with grandchildren- Dylan, Colton, Savannah & Michael, a host of nieces and nephews.. He also leaves behind some amazing friends that have become family.

Craig was born on April 11, 1961 in Lansing Michigan. He was born to Douglas & Carolyn Buckner (Beurmann). Craig was the youngest of four boys-Mike, Gary & Larry. Around the neighborhood, these four boys quickly became known as the “Buckner Boys”. He attended the Lansing public area schools and graduated from Eastern High School in 1979. Craig enlisted in the US Marine Corp and served his country from 1979-1984. While in service, he met his first wife Catherine Buckner (Phillipson). They both finished their enlistment in Camp LeJeune, North Carolina and decided to move to California.

Buck worked his entire life in construction. In the late 80s and early 90s, he worked mostly in the electrical field and moving his way up the ladder -eventually becoming self employed as a General Contractor at the time of his passing. After so many years of hardwork in the field, he took a “break” and ended up in Construction Management. Managing large projects and the daily grind of the California life. He was definitely well-known in the construction industry and was hands down one of the most intelligent beings. Buck could build anything in his sleep!! If anyone needed advice, he would be the first phone call for anyone that needed some guidance. He touched so many people and formed bonds that would last forever.

After many years of working and being single, Craig met Carla & they married privately on September 17, 2016 in Las Vegas. They started their life together in San Dimas, CA and eventually moving to a larger home in La Verne. Craig & Carla enjoyed taking trips together and creating special memories to the High Sierras to enjoy some much-needed relaxation and fresh air. They also traveled to Laughlin, Nevada for a few gambling adventures since they had such good luck with lotto scratchers!

During a recent much needed vacation to Michigan with Carla in May 2023- both realizing that it was more than a place to visit. They made the decision to pick up from the life they started together in California and start a new beginning back in Michigan. Settling on a large property in Ovid, Michigan they made the trek in October 2023. Facing the winter months ahead and learning to relax from the busy life of California, they both enjoyed their time together at their new home. Every morning, they would watch the bunnies and robins run through their yard and it was special to the both of them. Craig was ecstatic to also be reunited with his brothers and extended family! He looked forward to starting projects around the new house and building a new life retired with Carla. Most importantly, getting out to play golf with his older brothers.

Unfortunately, life had a different plan than what they had both hoped for. At the end of January, Craig developed some health challenges. During this time, they learned that Craig was diagnosed with Stage IV Lung Cancer which metastasized to his brain as well. It was a short 8 week battle & Craig fought hard. Craig passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends.