Mary Buckingham Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Mary Irene Buckingham, 88, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Friday, April 21, 2017 at her home in Okoboji. Mary was born on April 15, 1929 to Herman and Irene (Barnett) Elsenbast in Estherville. She graduated from Graettinger High School in 1947. She furthered her education and graduated from Stevens College. She was united in marriage to George Buckingham. To this union 4 children were born. Mary dedicated her time to raising her four children. When time allowed, she worked outside the home in various jobs relating to retail and banking. She enjoyed dedicating her time to being an AA Counselor. Mary was a member St. Mary’s Catholic Church. She was proud of her accomplishment of being a Life Masters Bridge Player. In her free time Mary enjoyed playing bridge with her numerous friends and acquaintances. She cherished her time with family and the companionship of her cat Sophie. Left to cherish her loving memory is her daughters Susan (Keith) Kellen of Milford; Nancy (Jeff) Hawn of Spirit Lake and Julia Davis of Spirit Lake; son David Buckingham and significant other Christine Fox of Lake Park; grandchildren Tyler and Clay Hawn and Holly Davis; numerous nephews, nieces and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister Catherine Barlow. A memorial mass will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 28, 2017 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Father Brian Hughes officiating. A visitation will be held one hour prior to service time at the church. A private family burial of her cremains will take place in the St. Jacobs Cemetery in Graettinger, IA. The Schuchert-Lentz Funeral Home in Spirit Lake is in charge of Arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to www.spiritlakefuenralhome.com

Mary Buckingham

April 15, 1929 - April 21, 2017