John Buckley ’55

John Buckley, Olathe, KS, died January 21, 2025.

Jack was born in Burlington, VT, attended Richford High School and from there went on to earn his Saint Michael’s bachelor’s in business administration. He had many stories and fond memories of his time at the College which included the ROTC Drill Team, playing in the band and cheering on the strong football and basketball teams of his day.

He went on to serve his country in the Army and was stationed at San Antonio (TX) Medical Army Base. During his time in the Army, he met his future wife, Barbara, a nurse, and they married in 1957. The marriage stood the test of time and kids and lasted 67 years to the day he passed.

After the Army, Jack and Barbara moved back to Vermont where their family began with the birth of two daughters. From Vermont they moved to Michigan where their family continued to grow with the births of two sons.

Again, employment opportunities saw them move to Prairie Village, KS, where the family commenced growing with the births of yet another daughter and son. Prairie Village became the perfect place to raise their family, and Jack ultimately started his family business called Incentive Associates where he thrived for the next 25 years. 

Jack was a manufacturer’s representative for many products and companies and truly enjoyed traveling his territory and befriending his customers and business partners. Some of his children joined the business, making it possible for him to retire from Incentive Associates. Jack was a Certified Incentive Professional by the National Premium Sales Executives Association. He was a past Fellows Club supporter of the College.

Jack was a proud member of St Ann’s Church in Prairie Village for 60 plus years and he ushered Masses weekly, all while putting his children through St. Ann’s School. He participated in and was a 4th degree in the Knights of Columbus and enjoyed many volunteer activities through the Knights. Jack enjoyed golf, coaching, dancing, bowling, playing cards, traveling and he was a rabid Kansas City Chiefs football fan.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara, three sons, three daughters and extended family.