David Wayne Buckler

David Wayne Buckler passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at the age of 71. You may know him better as Dad, Papaw, Hotz, or as a loving husband, brother, uncle, son, or friend, but no matter what you called him, you knew him, for Dave never met a stranger.

On August 23, 1954, Dave was the first child of seven born to Roy and Cecelia (Thomas) Buckler. He had many childhood escapades along with his six brothers and sisters and their neighborhood friends in the Crescent Hill neighborhood of Louisville, Kentucky.

Those escapades introduced him to the girl down the block, Barbara Cecil, who became the love of his life. They married in 1974 and had two children: Jenny, born in 1976, and Kenny, in 1978. Dave loved his family with his whole heart and deeply embedded his values of hard work, commitment, welcoming hospitality, and a love for people from all walks of life in them.

Dave graduated from Trinity High School (class of ‘72). He entered trade school and worked his way to becoming a Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker. His incredible work ethic, clear skill, and ability to work well with others led him to open his own successful business, Metro Sheet Metal. Dave was a member of the Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 110 and made long-lasting friendships with many of his co-workers. You knew you were in for a treat if Dave started sharing tips of the trade or a story from the jobsite.

After retiring, Dave spent his time in the places he loved best with the people he loved most. A true family man, Dave was cherished as an amazing Papaw. He changed diapers and baked cakes, made friends with everyone in the school car pickup line, and never missed his grandkids’ extracurricular events. He was always willing to go the extra mile to help out a friend or neighbor, and was ever at the ready with a quick-witted joke, a nickname to make you feel special, and a story to entertain you. Dave was truly one of a kind - he saw the best in people and even on your worst day, after talking to him for five minutes, the world seemed a little brighter.

Proceeded in death by his parents, brother Tom Buckler, sister Kathy Stine, and son-in-law Steve Sydenstricker.

Survived by his wife, Barbara; children Jenny Sydenstricker (Paul Robertson) and Kenny Buckler (Sarah); beloved grandchildren Logan and Josie Sydenstricker and Theo and Caleb Buckler; sisters Sue Huntsman (Donnie) and Mary Buckler (Dennis Bower); sister-in-law Hope Buckler; brothers Pat (Diane White) and Jeff (Angie) Buckler; his second family, the Cecils; and dozens of nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews.

Visitation will be held Sunday, April 19 from 1-8pm at Arch L. Heady at Resthaven, 4400 Bardstown Road. Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, April 20th at 11am at St. John Paul II Parish, 3539 Goldsmith Lane.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society.