Cornelius A. Buck

Cornelius (Lonnie) A. Buck, 89, is now in his forever home with God his Father in heaven after passing away Saturday, December 15, 2012 at St. Patrick Hospital.

He was born June 25, 1923, in Hot Springs, Mt, to John and Elma Buck.  He graduated from Hot Springs High School.  During his high-school years, he and his brother, Eddie, were star basketball players.  Also, Lonnie took first in state in pole vault establishing a new record.  From 1943 to 1946 he served his country in the Navy.

Being quite a shy person, he was introduced to Eldena Grant after friends set up a blind date.  They were married on June 1, 1952, and had 60 years together.   Lonnie built their house in Hot Springs where their family grew to include three children.  Lonnie worked 36 years for the Sanders County road dept. and part of the time was the crew’s foreman.   He retired in 1985.  After Eldena retired, the couple moved to Missoula to be near their grandchildren’s activities.  

Lonnie was a long-time member of the Hot Springs Lions Club and a volunteer fireman.  He was involved in Boy Scouts.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing and most sports.  All four of his grandchildren played sports and he loved going to their games.  Griz games were a favorite, too.  In his later years, he became a very good cook and exercised his wit by writing poetry.

Family near and far was very important to Lonnie.  He was a loving husband and father and an excellent provider.  His sense of humor made us groan as well as laugh.  He had integrity and a desire to help others.  In 1974, he acknowledged Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior which enhanced his character and gave him a more fulfilling life.  It was his faith that helped him endure the last two months of his life.

Just prior to hearing of his passing, his daughter and son-in-law (Deanna and Carl) had just read this scripture: I John 2:24-25 “Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you.  If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you will abide in the Son and in the Father.  And this is what he has promised us, eternal life.

Lonnie was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Margie Fortner and Velma Rowe; and brothers, Eddie and Howard.

He is survived by his cherished wife, Eldena of Missoula; son, Kevin (Anita) of Bellingham, WA; daughters, Debbie Buck of Missoula and Deanna (Carl) Walker of Missoula; grandchildren, Amber Truitt of Alaska and Lolo, Nathan Truitt of Dillon, Joshua (Suzie) Truitt of Lolo, and Bekah Truitt of Missoula; sister, Helen Pilgeram of San Jose, CA; and many nieces and nephews.  His first great-grandchild will be born in April.

A memorial service will take place in the spring at the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery.  Arrangements are under the care of Cremation and Burial Society of the Rockies.

The family suggests memorials to Valley Christian School, 2526 Sunset Lane, Missoula, MT 59804.  Condolences may be sent to 2115 South 5th St. West, Missoula Mt, 59801