Gary Thomas Buckner, of Appleton, formerly of White Lake, died Wednesday, June 22, 2022, at Theda Care Medical Center in Appleton. He was 83 years old. He was born on May 21, 1939, in Antigo, a son of Beulah (Stamper) Oatman of White Lake and the late Bruce Buckner.

He attended White Lake High School and served in the United States Navy. Following his service in the Navy, he worked at Pavek's Mink Ranch in Polar. He was a gourmet chef having worked for Ivan's Restaurant in Langlade for many years. He moved to Appleton and was a security guard for Pinkerton.

Gary was passionate about cooking, always sharing recipes and trying new kitchen gadgets. He was eager to make new recipes and solve others' dietary needs.

Gary is survived by his mother, Beulah; seven sisters, Sharon (Lynn) Johnson of Spring Hill, TN, Vickie (Rodney) Schultz of Palmer, AK, Janice Lecheler of Weston, Barbara (George) Maule of White Lake, Cheryl (Mark) Dilley of White Lake, Mary Leitner of White Lake and Tammy (Brice) Widener of Antigo; a brother-in-law, Larry Pieri of Florida; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father; step-father, LeRoy Oatman, two sisters, Sandra Buckner and Marilyn Pieri; and a brother, Terrance Buckner.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 29, 2022, at 11 a.m. at Bradley Funeral Home with Rev. Marvin Kindle officiating. Burial with Military Honors will occur at St. James Catholic Cemetery in White Lake.

Visitation will be Wednesday at the funeral home from 9:30 to 11 a.m.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Gary Thomas Buckner, please visit our Tribute Store

Services