07/23/2026
James Eugene Buck, of Boonville, Missouri, passed away on July 21, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on November 16, 1944, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, James lived a life marked by hard work, adventure, service to his community, and unwavering devotion to his family.
James grew up in Pittsburgh and attended Alliance College, where he earned his bachelor's degree in English while playing on the college basketball team. He fondly recalled competing in the NAIA Conference Tournament during his collegiate years. He later earned a Master's Degree in Library Science from the University of Pittsburgh.
He began his professional career as a university librarian before serving as a librarian for the State of Colorado. Afterward, James embraced his entrepreneurial spirit by opening two small businesses in the Denver metropolitan area. Eventually, he made Boonville, Missouri, his home, where he built a roller-skating rink and athletic center from the ground up. For more than 42 years, James operated the skating rink, creating a fun, welcoming, and safe place where generations of children and families made lasting memories. His genuine kindness, remarkable memory for names, and dedication to the community made him a beloved figure to countless people.
Outside of work, James had a lifelong passion for racing and automobiles. While living in Colorado, he rebuilt a Datsun and raced on quarter-mile and half-mile tracks. He remained a devoted NASCAR fan throughout his life. He also loved taking cross-country trips in his Corvette and embarking on motorcycle adventures. Among his favorite memories was riding his motorcycle from Boonville to the Grand Canyon, with Route 66 always holding a special place in his heart.
Above all else, James cherished his family. He made every effort to be present in the lives of his children and grandchildren, sharing with them his love of camping, music, sports, and, most importantly, the value of education. His guidance, encouragement, and steady presence left a lasting impact on each of them.
James is survived by his son, James Michael Buck and wife, Therese Davisson; his daughter, Laura Beth Archer and partner, Kevin Eubanks; his grandchildren, Lauren Elyse Young and husband, Justin, Leah Elizabeth Poehling and husband, Andrew, Conlin Mitchell Archer, and Kenton James Archer; his brother, Jack Buck; his brother-in-law, Frank Foley; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Pauline Buck; his sister, Patricia Buck; and his sister, Joan Zukiewicz and her husband, Joseph Zukiewicz, Sr.
James will be remembered for his generous heart, adventurous spirit, tireless work ethic, and the countless lives he touched through his business, friendships, and love for his family. His legacy will live on in the memories of all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the Boonville community.
A private family funeral service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Jim's memory to charity of donor's choice.
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