Joe Doudna Mechem Jr.

He fought a strong, but short battle against Leukemia. He was born in Marysville, Ohio on August 21, 1943 to Joe Doudna Mechem Sr. and Elizabeth Mechem.

Buck graduated from Athens High School with the Class of 1961. He played football and basketball throughout his high school career. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving in Germany as a medic. Following his military discharge, he married Karen Walls from Athens, Ohio on June 25th, 1964 in Hanford, CA.

He worked at Safeway Creamery in Hanford, CA for 23 years, until the plant’s closing in 1993. He spent the next 5 years at Danish Creamery in Fresno, CA until his retirement in 1999. Many lifetime friendships were made throughout those years.

His pride and joy were his children, grandchildren and great-grandchild. Because of this, one of his life’s goals was to impact the lives of other youth. Over his lifetime, he coached many youth sports teams in Hanford, from Hanford Little League to Babe Ruth to Pop Warner Football in hopes of doing so.

He was an avid fisherman and hunter. Some of his best times were spent fishing in Morro Bay, CA, where the couple had a vacation home. His wishes were for his remains to be spread at Morro Rock.

He was preceded in death by his parents. He leaves his loving memories to be cherished by his wife of 52 years, Karen Mechem; brother, John Mechem; son, Brad Mechem and wife Donna; daughter Lisa Johnson and husband Craig. He is also survived by three grandchildren; Savannah (Josh) Wetzel, Nick (Brit) Mechem and Dillon Mechem; and his great-grandson Ethan Mechem.

Family and friends are invited to view Buck Mechem’s legacy at www.peoplesfuneralchapel.com and send condolences to the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hanford Bullpup Football Program in memory of Buck Mechem. Please make checks payable to the Hanford High Quarterback Club - 9904 Edna Way, Hanford, CA 93230.

Memorial Service will be on Friday, August 12, 2016 at 5:30 p.m. People’s Funeral Chapel - 501 N. Douty St., Hanford, CA