Donald Alan Buckland, 74, Seymour, passed away peacefully at home with his family at his side on Saturday evening, June 11, 2022. He was born on July 24, 1947, in Escanaba, Michigan, to the late Donald Edward and Ernestine Lorraine (Carlson) Buckland. Donald's family relocated to Rockford, Illinois, when he was young. He was a 1965 graduate of Harlem High School in Rockford, IL.
Immediately after graduating from high school, Don enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, and proudly served his country as a Sergeant during the Vietnam era from 1966-1970. After returning to Rockford, he met Kathleen Fenelon, and the couple was united in marriage on October 3, 1970, in New York City.
Donald worked as a forms designer at Marine Midland Bank on Wall Street for three years. Don and Kathleen moved back to Rockford, IL, in 1973. Don worked as a long haul truck driver from 1973 until his retirement from the trucking industry in 2012. He had also worked as a Mason from 1976 until his death.
Don was a member of the Star in the East Lodge #166 in Rockford, IL. He also belonged to the Krause-Kraft-Mueller American Legion Post #106 in Seymour, with which he fondly enjoyed volunteering his time at the food pantry. Don lived life to the fullest and was always happy, especially while spending time with his family, friends, and dogs. He could talk to anybody, and had a great sense of humor. Don found peace while boating with Gary and Judi Elliott.
Don was an avid woodworker; he enjoyed making grandfather clocks and furniture. Don also enjoyed reading, traveling, and spending time outdoors at the park.
Survivors include his wife, Kathleen Buckland, Seymour; one daughter, Amanda Spreeman (special friend, Richard Singles), Little Chute; his canine companions: Ivy, and "his little buddy," Henry; and his close friend, Gary Elliott, Rockford, IL.
In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Kenneth and Genevieve (Chandler) Fenelon; his son-in-law, Tony Spreeman; and his close friend, Judi Elliott.
In accordance with Don's wishes, no funeral services will take place.
The family extends a special thanks to the staffs of Green Bay Health Services, Green Bay VA, and Unity Hospice, for their compassionate care.
Online condolences may be expressed to Don's family at www.muehlboettcher.com