Donald Edwin Buckius 1929-2014

Don Buckius was born on August 24, 1929 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and was raised there with his older brother Al and his younger sister Jane.  Don left home when he was only 17 years old for a 30 year adventure in the U.S. Navy.  While in the Navy, Don married his true love, Jan, had two children, Dean and Lori, and travelled the world, eventually settling in Northern Virginia.

As an enlisted man in the Navy, Don had served as a Gunner’s Mate on the USS DeHaven in the Korean War, and later on the USS Wisconsin.  He attended school to become a cryptologist. He then served in Guam, Puerto Rico, Istanbul, Staten Island, Norfolk, Rockville, Monterey, and Omaha. He also served on the USS Jamestown in the Vietnam War.  Don retired from the Navy as a Lieutenant Commander at Suitland, MD.  He went on to serve the Navy as a civilian at the Bureau of Naval Personnel, where he retired after working for 17 years.

After the Navy, Don continued to travel, although now for pleasure, enjoying frequent cruises with friends and family, and reuniting with his old Navy buddies.

Don was a loyal Redskins fan, even though his loyalty was seldom rewarded.  He was also a diehard Washington Nationals fan, settling into his favorite chair to watch most games. He enjoyed getting out on the golf course, playing poker with friends, collecting coins, and tending his garden.  He was an avid reader and conquered many Sudoku puzzles.  Don was an active member of Pohick Episcopal Church and the Brotherhood of Saint Andrew.

Don treasured the years he spent with Jan, and the time he spent with Lori and her husband Steve, with Dean and his wife Laura, and with his grandchildren Amy, Nicholas, and Leigh.

Don’s family and friends will remember him for his many great qualities, including his humor, his compassion, his generosity, his patience, and his loyalty.  He will be missed.