Jack C. Buchanan

Jack, C. Buchanan, (‘Buck’ as many knew him) passed away peacefully on July 16, 2012. Jack was born to Glenn and Charlotte Buchanan on April 1, 1924 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Jack leaves a sister, Betty Blaisdell, Arlington, Texas, wife Rose and six children, Mary (Kallemeyn), John Michael, James, Steve, Kevin, and Tim, 11 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He attended Howe High School in Indianapolis where he was awarded many honors and basketball awards. He graduated early and drafted into the US Army and became a member of the OSS in the China-Burma, India theater, proudly serving under Wild Bill Donavan. Upon returning after WWII, he attended Butler University and went into the insurance business. He received his law degree from California College of Law and continued insurance work in personal injury and medical malpractice cases. After retirement, which he never looked forward to, Jack began working at the Phoenix Zoo at the ticket turnstile. He was so loved by the Zoo employees and visitors for 15 years. Buck’s love of life, family, friends and God were what truly defined him. He was the driving force behind his large, close-knit family that will be forever his legacy. He was always ready to mentor his family giving simple solid advice. No problem was ever too big to tackle. Managing his health condition over many years, Buck never complained, but tackled each day with purpose. One of his favorite activities was watching the grandchildren participate in sports. They will always remember Granddad in the stands with his words of encouragement. His infectious smile, laughter and love at family gatherings and a simple Godly example of life will live on forever to those who knew him. A visitation will be held from 5:00-8:00 P.M., Thursday, July 19th at Shadow Mountain Mortuary. 2350 E. Greenway Rd. with a Rosary starting at 7:00. A funeral mass will be held at 10:00 A.M., Friday, July 20th at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 330 E. Coral Gables Dr. Interment will follow at 2:00 P.M. at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N. Cave Creek Rd. The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley and/or Catholic Charities. Please visit www.shadowmountainmortuary.com.