Ralph B. Buckles

Ralph B. Buckles Jr., 64, of Denver, passed away unexpectedly at home on Friday, March 7, 2025. Born in Havre de Grace, MD, Ralph was the son of Nancy (Duncan) Buckles and the late Ralph B. Buckles Sr. For 36 years, Ralph was the loving husband to Lisa A. (Smith) Buckles, until her passing in June 2022.

Ralph grew up in Downingtown and graduated from Downingtown Joint Sr. High School, class of 1978. As a young man, Ralph earned the rank of Eagle Scout and played the trombone in the school band.

Ralph pursued a career in electrical engineering and earned his bachelor’s degree at LeTourneau University in Texas. During his college years, he was an avid cyclist, participating in numerous bike tours. With no fear, Ralph was once a tornado and storm chaser, tracking storms from Tennessee to Texas. After college, Ralph returned to Downingtown and worked as an electrician before transitioning to a role in chemical spill clean-ups. This led him to a position as a project manager for government sites, where he became a lead estimator. Ralph volunteered at Camp Sankanac in Spring City, Chester County, where he met Lisa. Two years later, in 1990, they moved to Denver, Pa.

Ralph was known to be the dog finder, rescuing dogs of all kinds. Ralph was a hobbyist beekeeper, established his own brand, R&L Honey, and enjoyed marketing it locally, turning it into a fun social cause. He was also a farm enthusiast, raising chickens for fresh eggs, gardening his own veggies and caring for his homestead. He was dedicated to sustainable living. A redneck at heart, Ralph was a do-it-yourselfer and handyman. Ralph was always willing to help and volunteered with the American Red Cross, where he assisted in disaster response and re-homing efforts. A lifelong learner, Ralph was a master of information and a wise man who loved to share his skills and nuggets of knowledge with others. He leaves a legacy of service, adventure, and kindness.

In addition to his mother, Ralph is survived by four children, Nicole Buckles of Lancaster, Abby Buckles of Shillington, Shiron Hudson of Lancaster, and Shaquille Hudson of Lancaster; a grandson, Trey Hudson; and many grand-pups; two sisters, Sarah Phillipson (Daniel) and Angella Lochstampfor and many nieces and nephews. Additionally, to his wife Lisa, Ralph was predeceased by brother in-law, Paul Lochstampfor.

A Celebration Reception will be held at Weaver's Banquet Facility, 2610 N Reading Rd, Denver, PA, on Thurs., March 13th from 5 to 6 p.m. We will pause for a Celebration Service at 6 p.m. officiated by Reverend Matthew Hill. The reception will resume until 8 p.m. Come as you are!

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions in Ralph’s name to Hospice & Community Care, www.hospiceandcommunitycare.org or donate to a local women's shelter of your choice.

Arrangements and cremation by Good Sipler Funeral & Cremation Centre, Inc., Reamstown (Stevens), Pa. Please post condolence messages to Ralph’s family at www.siplerfuneralhome.com