Obituary of Thomas John Buck

BUCK, Thomas John Peacefully, surrounded by his adoring family at McGarrell Place on Friday August 30, 2013 after a valiant struggle with Alzheimer's disease, Thomas John Buck of London in his 84th year. Beloved, cherished husband of 56 years to Linda (nee Smith). Loving father to Mary Jane (Henry Mezenberg), Brian, Ruth, Cathy (Clayton Nixey), Sharon, Susan, Carolyn (Drew von Hasselbach), Sandra (Steve King), Karen (Rich Spence) and Angela. Adoring grandfather of Charlene (Bruce Sanderson), Laura (Cory Reive), Patrick, Curtis, Jacob, Allison, Melissa, Jesse, Tommy, Elyse, Dylan, Kayley and Brianna. Proud great-grandfather to Cody, Jayda, Josie, Sierra and Phoebe. Cherished brother of T. James Buck and wife Cory, Dr. Robert Buck, Janet and Conrad (1963). Tom will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by several nieces and nephews, extended family, friends and neighbours. Tom was a vibrant and dedicated high school teacher and hockey coach for many years in the Thames Valley District School Board. He was also a hobby farmer and passionate outdoorsman who knew every back road, scenic route, picnic area, campsite, hiking trail, type of tree and beer store across Ontario. Tom was an award-winning cabinetry and furniture craftsman who was also known for his vast military knowledge and his abilities as a handyman and amateur auto mechanic. He was extremely proud of his family and his life was richly filled with simple pleasures, love and laughter. Tom will always be warmly remembered for his generosity, tenacity, love of nature, zest for living and sense of humour. Dad, now you are truly our guardian angel. We love you and will miss you forever. Rest in peace. A special thank you to the dedicated staff at McGarrell Place for their kindness and care. Friends may call at the John T. Donohue Funeral Home 362 Waterloo Street at King Street on Wednesday from 2-4 & 7-9 o'clock. The Funeral Mass will be held at St. Michael's Church, 511 Cheapside Street on Thursday morning, September 5, 2013 at 10 o'clock. Interment St. Peter's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations made to Jesse's Journey would be gratefully appreciated. To make a donation online, please visit the following web address: www.jessesjourney.com/how-you-can-help/donate-now.aspx