Tehachapi News

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Dennis Buckley, devoted husband to Alice and loving father to Lisa and Jeffrey, peacefully passed away on April 25, after a short but courageous battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). He was 66 years old.

He was born to Robert and Vina Buckley, in Fort Madison, Iowa. Dennis joined the Air Force when he was 19. During his 23 year military career, he spent time in Maine, Texas, Turkey, Vietnam, Washington (where he met his wife, Alice), England, and finally California.

Shortly after retiring from the Air Force, Dennis returned to work for the military at Edwards Air Force Base as a civilian. He had many interesting jobs in the 23 years he worked as a civilian, the last being a tools and parts attendant with 912 AMXS/MXAA. He retired last April.

Dennis loved talking with people and always had a story or joke to share. He was a faithful Dodgers and Raiders fan. He enjoyed bowling and woodworking. Though he was stricken with ALS over the past year, he never lost his joy of life or sense of humor. He will be remembered always as a wonderful husband, father and friend.

A memorial service celebrating his life was held on Thursday, May 1, at the Wood Family Funeral Chapel in Tehachapi. A private interment followed at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that charitable donations be made to the ALS Association www.alsa.org.