Buck was born in Point Pleasant, NJ on January 26, 1937 to the late Joseph Roy and Mildred Jeanette (Meyer) Decker. A life-long Newton resident, Buck was class president of the first class of Newton High School and graduated in 1955 with many athletic achievements. As part of the high school’s first wrestling team, he earned a varsity letter for each year and was a two-time State Champion. After graduating, Buck attended the University of Maryland where he also wrestled.
In 1961, Buck began his career as an insurance agent with Allstate Insurance where he would dedicate 38 years before retiring in 1999. He also worked for Esso Oil Company, Perona Farms, and the Grist Mill Playhouse for some time.
Buck was a member of the Branchville Business Club and was very active with the Christ Episcopal Church in Newton. He and his late wife of 62 years enjoyed camping and traveling together, whether as close as Atlantic City or as far as Alaska. Buck loved playing cards in his free time, and was very fond of the cars he owned over the years. He treasured his ‘90 Cadillac, his Mercedes S-Class, and his ’86 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am which he often brought to car shows at the Chatterbox. Buck was a generous man who always looked out for others and he will be missed by many.
Buck is predeceased by his beloved wife, Nancy L. Decker. He is survived by his two sons, Bob Decker of Newton and Chris (Diane S.) Decker of Milford, PA; his grandchildren, Christopher Decker of Milford, Sarah Decker of Newton, Allison Decker of Milford, and Billy Decker of Newton; and his brother, Joseph R. Decker of Newton.
A memorial service will be held at a later date under the direction of Smith McCracken Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Newton Pride Foundation, 44 Ryerson Ave, Newton NJ 07860.
