Dennis J. Buckley

Dennis J. Buckley of York, ME passed away peacefully on June 26, 2023 after a brief illness, surrounded by his devoted wife and loving children. He will be forever loved, remembered, and deeply missed by family and friends.

Dennis, the son of the late Francis W. and Catherine E. (Enright) Buckley, was born in Arlington, MA, the youngest of five siblings. He married the love of his life, Marie J. (Quinn) in 1965, and their mutual devotion, respect, friendship, and commitment to each other was inspirational. In 1967 Dennis and Marie built their “starter” home in Nashua, NH. In their 46 years there, they raised their family, made lifelong friends, hosted fabulous bashes, and enjoyed their community. In 1991 the sea called to them, and a dream was realized when they purchased a cottage in York Beach, Maine. Eventually the cottage was replaced by a beach house designed by Dennis, and the Buckleys retired to York in 2013. York Beach became a gathering place for friends and family where laughter, support, wisdom, and love were dispensed in abundance by Dennis and Marie.

A lifelong tinkerer with a perpetually curious mind, Dennis graduated from Merrimack College in 1965 with a BS in Electrical Engineering. Dennis was a naturally gifted engineer, earning multiple patents throughout his career. He took pleasure in assisting anyone needing his innate problem-solving skills and general know-how. Dennis held positions in various industries, spending the last 26 years of his career with Philips Medical Equipment’s ultrasound division. Once retired, he enjoyed volunteering at York Middle School, supporting the STEM program.

Dennis’ truest joy came from the time he spent alongside his family. He cherished every moment with Marie, his wife of nearly 58 years, gladly devoted to being her forever partner and best friend. Amongst his most valued accomplishments was raising his two deeply loved children, Rita and Joseph. Dennis gratefully watched his family bloom into further generations, delighted to have the role of “Papa” and opportunities for sharing his love and wisdom with his five grandchildren, who love him dearly and always.

Dennis is survived by Marie and their children: Rita Calnan with her partner Daniel Speake of York, Maine, and Joseph Buckley with his wife Maureen (Toepfert) of Aldie, Virginia. Dennis also leaves his cherished grandchildren: Jessica Calnan, her fiancé Riley Moyer and Robert Calnan all of Maine, and Lauren Buckley, Jack Buckley and Carolynn Buckley all of Virginia. Dennis is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews (and their children and grandchildren) whom he loved deeply, as well as many cousins and friends. Dennis was predeceased by his parents, Francis and Catherine, and siblings: Francis (Bill) & his wife Mary Buckley, Elizabeth Buckley, John Buckley, and James & his wife Patricia Buckley.

Visiting hours will be from 5:00 to 8:00 PM on Thursday, July 6 in the Lucas & Eaton Funeral Home in York, ME. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Christopher in York, ME at 11:00 AM on Friday, July 7.

Dennis’ family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of York Hospital, particularly the ICU team, who in addition to their professional acumen, embodied “Loving Kindness.” In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the following organizations be considered: American Diabetes Association and Arthritis Foundation.

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