Robert B. Buckbee

One of the world’s good guys, Robert “Bob” Buckbee, 89, of Mechanicsburg, PA, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 27, 2025, at Chapel Pointe Nursing Home in Carlisle. He was the beloved husband of Shirley (Blair) Buckbee for 63 years.

Bob is survived by his devoted wife Shirley; two daughters, Susan Wilcox and her husband Paul of Martinsburg, WV, Ellen Jones and her husband Roy of Walkersville, MD; four grandchildren, Emily (Brandon), Margaret (Nicholas), Brendon and Garrett; and sister, Marcia Buckbee Haley, of Pittsburgh, PA. He treasured his family dearly.

Born on November 30, 1935, in Harrisburg, PA, he was the son of the late Donald M. and Madeline Naftzinger-Buckbee and stepson of the late James E. “Jimmy” Balsbaugh. Blessed with humor, intelligence and a strong work ethic, Bob survived the death of his father, Donald, at age 10. He dug ditches at 13 to help support his family. He also bore the death of his much-loved son, Robert B. Buckbee, Jr., siblings Donald “Marty” Buckbee, Jr., (the late Barbara), Ann Balsbaugh Gumberg, and Brother-in-Law, “Jim” Haley, with faith, strength and grace, as well as with profound sadness.

Loyal to his work and academics, Bob graduated from Lemoyne High School in 1953 and Dartmouth College in 1957 with a BS in Geology. Following graduation, he proudly served in the Air National Guard. He later dedicated many years to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a management analyst in the Department of Public Welfare. From 1969 to 1991 he owned and operated Brubaker-Hixson Electronics in Mechanicsburg.

Bob was a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Mechanicsburg for 50 years. He gave faithful support and leadership to the church’s Mission of love and belief in Christ. He was also a loyal chocolate dipper of Easter Eggs for their annual fundraiser.

Bob was always there for those who needed him. He gave his unconditional support and wisdom to family and friends alike, always willing to lend a hand. Never without a word of encouragement, a dash of humor, a good story and a great smile.

Bob was a knowledgeable sports fan. He was an enthusiastic and dedicated follower of Penn State Football, with many memorable weekends in Happy Valley. He was also a loyal follower of the Dodgers, and in his youth was glued to the radio, listening to their games in Brooklyn. He was also a lifetime member of the Mechanicsburg Club. Bob and Shirley travelled often during their wonderful marriage. Their annual 3 weeks in Aruba, where they made many lasting friendships, was the highlight of their years together.

A Celebration of Life for Bob will be held on Saturday, July 19, at 10:00 a.m., at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 130 Nittany Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055. Family and friends will be received at the church from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The service will begin at 11:00 a.m. There will be a reception/luncheon following the service at the church. The burial will take place at 2:00 p.m. at Rolling Green Cemetery, Camp Hill. In lieu of flowers, if you wish, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church. Arrangements are being handled by Hollinger Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., Mt. Holly Springs, PA.