Thomas David Buckner, age 82 of Ellsworth, WI, passed away March 31, 2021 at the Ellsworth Health Services.  Thomas was born June 15, 1938 in Trimbelle Township, WI to parents Raymond and Thelma (McCusker) Buckner.  Tom proudly served his country in the United States Army – serving in the 101st Airborne, 326th Combat Engineers from July 21, 1961 – June 26, 1964.  Tom was united in marriage to Marjorie Ann Larson on June 25, 1966 at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in River Falls.  Their marriage was blessed with three children and over 51 years of love and devotion.  Tom worked at Red Wing Shoe for 44 years until his retirement in 2001.

Tom was a true outdoorsman, who enjoyed the peacefulness of being in the woods hunting and on the trout steam fishing.  He was passionate about nature and the environment and preserving the Trimbelle Creek.  He was also a member of the DNR Conservation Congress and multiple Sportsman’s Clubs.  Tom delighted in going out for breakfast and the conversations that were made.  Tom was a humble and kind man, generous in helping others above himself and thoughtful in making his family and friends a priority.

Tom will remain in the hearts of his children, Dan (Kristina) Buckner, Diane (Jeff) Halbach and Bob Buckner; his grandchildren, Jared, Ellie and Nathan Halbach, and Andrew, Jessica and Thomas Buckner; sister, Rosie Noah; brother, Richard Buckner; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Marjorie; and his parents, Raymond and Thelma Buckner.

Mass of Christian Burial will take place 11:30 AM Friday, April 9, 2021 at St. Francis Catholic Church, 231 Woodworth St., Ellsworth, with Fr. David Olson officiating.  The Mass will be livestreamed at: https://youtu.be/fB_cD7u5t0Y. A Gathering of Family and Friends (masks and social distancing encouraged) will be held at church, starting at 9:30 AM until the start of Mass.  Burial with military honors by the Kinne-Engelhart American Legion – Post 204 will take place at Trimbelle Cemetery.  In keeping true to Tom’s humble ways, please feel free to dress casual and come as you are to commemorate his life.

Funeral services are entrusted to the O’Connell-Benedict Family Funeral Home of Ellsworth (715) 273-4421.  www.oconnellfuneralservices.com