Visitation:
Friday, September 11, 2026
3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.
Secor Funeral Home
Willard, Ohio
Visitation 2:
Saturday, September 12, 2026
10:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.
First United Methodist Church
Willard, Ohio
Service:
Saturday, September 12, 2026
11:00 a.m.
First United Methodist Church
Willard, Ohio
Donald E. Buckingham, age 94, of Willard, Ohio passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at Stein Hospice in Sandusky, Ohio.
Don (Buck) was born on May 17, 1932 in Willard, Ohio to the late Halden and Ruth (Haag) Buckingham. After serving in the Navy during the Korean war, he worked briefly on the railroad and then joined R.R. Donnelly and Sons Company on September 10, 1956 as a press operator. He was among the original group of employees hired during Donnelly’s first year of operation in Willard. During his remarkable career, he earned recognition for 35 years of perfect attendance and ultimately retired as Supervisor of the Building Department.
A devoted member of First United Methodist Church in Willard, Don faithfully served his church community for many years as custodian. His commitment to service extended well beyond the church walls. He served as president of both the Willard Conservation League and the Kiwanis Club, was a Red Cross First Aid instructor, and was recognized throughout the community for his dedication and leadership. In 1966, the Willard Jaycees honored him as Outstanding Young Man of the Year, He also received the Distinguished Service Award from the Willard, Ohio Junior Chamber of Commerce for Outstanding Community Service.
Perhaps one of Don's greatest legacies was his impact on young people through scouting. As Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 205 in Willard for 25 years, he mentored generations of youth and earned their respect and admiration. In 1977, he was honored to receive the Silver Beaver Award for distinguished service to youth. The Silver Beaver is the highest award achievable by an adult in scouting.
Don enjoyed spending time outdoors golfing, hunting, and fishing. He also loved playing softball, first with a Navy team and later with the Willard Donnelley's team. After the passing of his beloved wife, Altha, he found a meaningful way to honor her memory. Using the fabric she had left behind, he crafted hundreds of lap blankets that he generously shared with family, friends, and strangers alike. He often kept blankets in his vehicle so he could give one to anyone who might need a little comfort.
He loved and was loved by his family and friends. He was known for his kindness, generosity, humble spirit, and willingness to help anyone in need. His life was a shining example of service, compassion, and integrity, and he was truly a role model to all who knew him.
Don is survived by his daughter, Cathy (Jim) Gell of Lancaster, PA; son, Brian Buckingham of Willard, 5 grandchildren, Kelli Collins, Jacob Buckingham, Lindsey Buckingham, Zachary Buckingham and Kristin Lentz; 4 great grandchildren, Finn Lentz, Charlie Lentz, Paisley Buckingham and Edith Buckingham; along with several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Altha Buckingham; son, Eric Buckingham and siblings, Hal Buckingham, Mildred Tanner, Robert Buckingham, Evelyn Buckingham and David Buckingham.
Calling hours will be on Friday, September 11, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Secor Funeral Home in Willard, Ohio. Additional calling hours will be on Saturday, September 12, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Don's funeral beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Willard, Ohio with Pastor Jacob Mckenzie officiating.
Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in New Haven, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association or Hospice of the Western Reserve (Stein Hospice), Sandusky, OH. Online condolences can be made to Don's family by visiting www.