David George "Bucky" Bucknam

Retired Army 1SGT David George “Bucky” Bucknam, 76, of Leesburg, Florida, died Monday, April 16, 2018. He was born in Auburn, NY in 1941, the son of the late Mildred “Millie” and George Bucknam. David joined the US Army in 1960 where he served for 24 years until his retirement July 1984.  He earned several medals during his military career including the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal.

David worked his second career in the car industry in several locations, including, Fox Chevrolet in Auburn, NY, D Chevrolet in Watertown NY and Bill Seidle’s in Claremont Florida.

He loved to play golf and truly enjoyed watching all sporting events, especially the New York Yankees.  He was life member of the VFW and the American Legion.  Surviving are his wife of 52 years Verna Bucknam, daughter Stacy Bucknam-Groth and her husband Richard Groth, of Hinesville, Ga, granddaughter Kelsey Groth of Jacksonville, two grandsons Steven and David Rhodes of Germany, brother Donald T. Bucknam and his wife Mary Ellen (Brennan) Bucknam, of Auburn.  He is also survived by nieces and nephew Michael Bucknam, Mary Bucknam Edmonds and her husband Todd and Meg Bucknam

David was predeceased by his son Chris Rhodes, his parents George and Mildred Bucknam and by his nephew, David C. Bucknam, who died on March 28, 1998. 

David was extremely social and was able to strike up a conversation and enjoy a drink with just about anyone.  He cherished the times he was able to travel to New York and spend time with his family and lifelong friends.  He was loved by many and he deeply loved his family and friends.

A visitation will be held at 10AM on Saturday May 12, 2018 at St. Patrick’s Church in Aurora, NY with a memorial service to follow at 11AM. Interment will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Aurora. Shakelton Funeral Home, 48 South Street, Auburn is in charge of the arrangements

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