Jerrold Phillip Buk

Jerry was born on February 22, 1949 to Albert and Doris Buk and soon became inseparable from his beloved older sister, Sandy. He grew up on the prairies of western Nebraska and Kansas, where he developed a deep love of the land—a passion that guided his master's research and shaped his lifelong career in agricultural service and education.

Despite a childhood bout with polio, he forged ahead to become a leader in Cooperative Extension, serving in Nebraska, Wyoming, and Nevada. He rose from cooperative agent in the Sand Hills to county agent and area director in Casper and Fallon, later becoming Dean in the College of Agriculture and state director for Nevada. Jerry was deeply committed to ranching and farm families, championing cooperative extension programs and encouraging generations of 4-H youth.

At the center of Jerry's life was his wife, Barbara, his joy and steadfast companion of 56 years. Their love was a source of strength and happiness, a true partnership built on deep affection, laughter, and unwavering support. She was his greatest love, and he never missed an opportunity to share how proud and grateful he was to walk through life at her side.

Friends remember Jerry for his dimpled smile, twinkling eyes, and warm, infectious laugh. He had a genuine gift for friendship, both in his work and in his many hobbies. He never stopped learning, and he could make or fix just about anything. He loved sailing, a pastime that reminded him of his early days as an amateur pilot, and he found joy in playing the guitar and singing, sharing his rich baritone voice in church choirs and recording hundreds of duets on an online platform with friends and strangers alike.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Barbara; his children, Jason Buk (Wendy),

Tracey Poe, Matthew Buk (Sandy), and Dane Buk (Lindsay); and his grandchildren, Gwyneth, Samantha, Sienna, Quincey, Lincoln, Logan, Madelyn, Hank, and Lucas. He is also survived by his half-brother, Steven Jones; his step-brother, Steve Smoyer; his nieces and nephews, Kenna, Jamie, Jennifer, Tyler, Lexie, Jeremiah, Leah, Thad, Laura, Jennifer, Brent, Eric, Cassandra, and Miranda; and his many cousins. He loved them all.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 on February 22, 2025, at Palm Boulder Highway, 800 South Boulder Highway in Henderson, NV 89015. It will consist of a public viewing at noon and a brief service at 1:00, followed by a reception.