Leland John Buckoski

Leland “Lee” John Buckoski, age 93, slipped unexpectedly into the arms of Jesus on April 16, 2024, at his home in Fox Crossing. Just days before his passing, he had the pleasure of visiting “The Farm” with his children regaling them with his memories. Lee was born on August 14, 1930, to Andrew and Julia (Stefl) Buckoski at home in the Town of Seneca, Shawano County, WI.  He was the youngest of three children and assisted his parents on the family farm. Lee attended Rippling Brook School (a one room schoolhouse) and graduated from Bowler High School in 1948.

Lee met Rogene Anderson in the early fifties at the Caroline Ballroom. The two fell in love and were united in marriage on July 10, 1954, at St Rose Catholic Church in Clintonville. They spent years working the family farm and raising their family until the barn was lost in a fire. They moved in 1969 so Lee could continue work at Allis-Chalmers, in Appleton. Lee was a farmer at heart throughout his life and he and Rogene instilled a strong work ethic in all of their children. As a devout Catholic, Lee found value in daily Mass at St John the Baptist Church.

A lover of the outdoors, Lee enjoyed hunting, fishing, ice fishing, golfing and birdwatching-especially looking for the elusive bluebird.  He enjoyed playing and watching baseball and softball. As season ticket holders for the Packers, he and Rogene spent many hours in the stands cheering on their team. In later years following retirement, the couple spent hours antiquing and then selling their treasures at flea markets.

Lee is lovingly survived by his children: Steve (Debbie) Buckoski, Deborah Buckoski, Mike (Pam) Buckoski, Mark Buckoski, Donna (Gregg) Handler and Tom (Kim) Buckoski; grandchildren: Aaron (Amanda) Buckoski, Jason (Sarah) Buckoski, Andrew (Nicole) Buckoski, Justin (Kim) Buckoski, Matthew (Dana) Buckoski, Maren (Morgan) Popp, Ben Buckoski, Eric (Amy) Handler, and Ryan (Maggie) Handler. He is further survived by 23 great grandchildren; sister-in-law Mary Ann Moder; brother-in-law Wally Laehn as well as other family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, his grandson David; his parents, sister Hazel (Cliff) Flanagan; brother Eugene (Ilamae) Buckoski; Rogene’s parents Theodore and Mildred Anderson; and brothers-in-law Russell (Ila) Anderson and Charles Moder as well as sister-in-law Kathy Laehn.

A visitation will take place on Thursday April 25, 2024, from 5:00pm until 7:00pm at Wichmann Funeral Home, Tri County Chapel, 1592 Oneida, Fox Crossing. This time of gathering will be followed by a prayer service. 

A funeral liturgy will take place Friday April 26, 2024, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 516 De Pere Street, Menasha, at 11:00am. Friends and family may gather at the church from 9:00am until Mass begins. Lee will be interred at St. Mary Cemetery, Leopolis. Because Lee’s wife Rogene left us during the height of Covid, please plan to join us as we also celebrate her life through these gatherings.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund will be established in Lee’s name.

To our sister Deb, you made Dad’s wish of remaining at home come true. Thank you for all the love and care you provided to him and to us.