John Bucklen

John Bucklen, 83 formerly of Lomira passed away on December 25, 2024, at SSM – Hospice Home of Hope in Fond du Lac. Born on December 20, 1941, son of the late Norman Bucklen and Hildur Bucklen (nee Ogren) L’Allier and the stepson of Al L’Allier. John graduated from Hibbing High School in 1960. After graduation, John moved to St. Paul and eventually enlisted in the Air Force during which time he served as a medic. He married Grace “Graci” (nee Grantman) on July 31, 1972, in Watertown, SD. John was a radio broadcaster and DJ at KFIZ/WFON for many years. His passion and love for music was known by many. This lifelong passion had its formative years in high school, exploring different musical genres and creating music with his high school friend, Bob Dylan. John’s knowledge of contemporary music history and influence was shared through his storytelling, conversation, and playing his beloved six-string acoustic guitar.

Those John leaves behind to cherish his memory include his children; Amy (Beau) Polinske, Jennifer (Todd) Gilgenbach, and Ben Bucklen; five grandchildren, Jaidyn (Dakota) DeGroot, Madalyn and Cooper Gilgenbach, and Vinetta and Casper Polinske; sister Ruth Pavich, a brother-in-law, Mickey (Beth) Grantman, a sister-in-law, Patricia Chastain; nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, John is preceded in death by his wife Graci; son Chris Bucklen; sister Norma LaPlante; brother-in-law Pete Pavich; a nephew; beloved L’Allier stepbrothers and stepsisters; and other dear relatives and friends.

VISITATION: John’s family will greet relatives and friends at the Myrhum - Patten Funeral Home (350 Main Street, Lomira) on Thursday, January 9, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.

FUNERAL SERVICE: A Funeral Service for John will be held at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home following visitation on Thursday, January 9.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the SSM Hospice Home of Hope staff for their outstanding care and compassion for John.

Myrhum-Patten Funeral and Cremation Service has been entrusted with John’s arrangements. Additional information and online guest book may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.