Michael R. Buckner

Michael R. Buckner passed away peacefully on Monday, February 17, 2025 at home. He was 67.

He was born on February 26th, 1957, in Dallas, Texas to the late Richard P. Buckner and Edith Essex Buckner. Michael was raised in Dallas and graduated from Brian Adams High School where he was lighting manager for stage productions and also played conga drums in his rock band. He continued his education at Texas Tech University, where he studied geology before focusing on business and accounting. He then relocated to Houston where he married his former wife, Jeannine. He began his professional career as a law clerk where he worked for esteemed judges in the Harris County Civil District courthouse. His time as a clerk proved to be invaluable as he pursued an accounting degree from the University of Houston and later earned his certification as a Certified Public Accountant. Throughout his career, Michael dedicated himself to multiple Houston-area accounting firms before moving on to serve as a bankruptcy analyst for the Department of Justice in San Antonio, Texas. In this capacity, he excelled at uncovering fraud while also finding the role personally fulfilling when he had the opportunity to provide compassion and support to those experiencing difficult times. 

Outside his professional life, Michael found joy in the outdoors, particularly in the mountains where he enjoyed hiking, backpacking, and snow-shoeing. His love of nature began during family vacations in Colorado. He enjoyed fishing and gardening. He loved working with his hands, fixing things around the house, repairing jewelry and musical instruments, knife-sharpening, leatherworking, grinding coffee, and helping his kids with school projects. Michael was an avid fan of fantasy and science fiction books and movies, and enjoyed playing video games with his son, Daniel. He frequently listened to his favorite scores and soundtracks from these experiences. After retirement, he joined his daughter Gina's band, Meraki Caravan, where he played the drums and performed at various festivals and venues, including renaissance faires. 

Above all, Michael will be remembered for his compassion, calming presence, integrity, and sense of humor. He lived with honor and loyalty to his friends and family. 

He is survived by his former wife, Jeannine Vetrano Buckner, his children Gina Michelle Buckner (daughter), Daniel Ryan Buckner (son), Catherine Denney (fiancée of Daniel Buckner) and brothers, John "Jack" Buckner and David Buckner. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews. 

Family and friends are cordially invited to attend the memorial service honoring Michael Buckner on Saturday March 1, 2025 at the Joyce Funeral Home (245 Main St, Waltham MA) with a visitation starting at 1:00 p.m., a celebration of life at 2:00 p.m., and a reception to follow at 4:00 p.m. In lieu of customary remembrances, we ask that memorial contributions in honor of Michael be directed to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (pancan.org).