Obituary of John George Francis Buckley
Buckley, John George Francis
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of a true gentleman on August 9, 2023 in his 94th year. John is survived by the loves of his life, wife Diane of 69 years, son Michael and his wife Christine, grandchildren Lauren, Scott, Bryan (Claire) and Adam. John now joins his son Stephen who he has missed for the past 46 years, parents George and Ada (Tylee), sister Patricia (David) Hadley and brother Peter. When John and Diane were first married, they worked together so he could complete his studies to become a chartered accountant, retiring in 1991 as Vice President of CGTX in Montreal. When their oldest son Stephen was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, John along with Diane and her father Charles Genereux were instrumental in developing the Montreal Chapter of Muscular Dystrophy with the hopes of finding a cure for this devastating disease. John and Diane were both awarded medals from Queen Elizabeth II on the 25th anniversary of her accession to the throne for their continuous efforts. John attained lifetime membership with the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (now CPA Canada), and was a member of Rotary, Probus Canada, Kanawaki Golf Club and St. Catharines Golf and Country Club, which he joined after moving from Pointe Claire, Quebec in 1997 to be closer to his son Mike and his family. He was a great mentor and friend to Mike. From going to countless hockey and baseball games to help out while Mike coached, to spending time together on the golf course, to numerous family visits and acitivities, Mike was the light of John’s life. John’s grandchildren meant the world to him and they have been extremely blessed to have him involved in all aspects of their lives, from attending extracurricular activities, school events and graduations, celebrating birthdays and holidays, and the cherished weekly Sunday dinners. They will always have fond memories of special times spent with their grandfather and life lessons which which will guide them through their own lives. John and Diane had a large network of friends who were always important in their lives and they loved to travel, making Florida their winter home after his retirement. An avid golfer, John has 3 hole-in-ones to his name. His love of the game has been passed on to his grandchildren.
John was a man who was unwavering in his faith, family and work ethic. Diane was the love of his life and there is nothing he wouldn’t do for his soulmate. A great mentor and friend, he was always kind and gentle, generous and thoughtful, anyone who knew him is better for having had him in their lives. John is now at peace but will be missed tremendously.
Family and friends will be received at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL HOME, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines on Thursday August 24th from 2-4 p.m. with Vigil Prayers at 3 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday August 25th at 2 p.m. at Star of the Sea Catholic Church, Port Dalhousie.
If desired, donations to Muscular Dystrophy Canada in honour of Stephen Buckley would be greatly appreciated
