Obituary of Walter C. Buck

Walter C. Buck, October 1917 - March 2012, passed away peacefully on Thursday at Ellis Hospital following a brief illness. Walter was born and raised in Schenectady, the son of Walter and Harriet Barrett Buck, and he graduated from Nott Terrace High School. He was a proud member of the US Army during World War II, serving in an artillery unit in the European Theatre. Following military service, Walter worked for General Electric in Schenectady as a draftsman, retiring in 1980. Walter is survived by his companion of 12 years, Peggy Pendell, his stepson Terry Donaldson of Phoenix, Arizona, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife of 23 years, the former Henrietta Harnischfeger, and his sister, Marjorie A. Warren. Throughout his life, Walter participated in many health-oriented activities. He was a longtime member of the Schenectady Racquet Club and several tennis leagues. Walter was an avid cyclist, often taking part in long-distance group rides. He was an avid walker and could often be seen on his way to shopping or church. He was a longtime member of the Eastern Parkway Methodist Church. Walter will mostly be remembered by those close to him as a strong-willed, determined man with a generous heart, and a desire to help anyone and everyone. He was always eager to involve himself in projects of others, particularly those making use of his mechanical skills, and he made many contributions that will be remembered by those he touched. Calling hours will be Tuesday, March 6th from 4 PM to 6 PM at Jones Funeral Home, 1503 Union St., Schenectady. A memorial service will be held 10:30 AM Wednesday, March 7th at Jones Funeral Home followed by a burial service at 2 PM at the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Walter's memory be made to the City Mission of Schenectady.