Stephen Julius Buko

Stephen Julius Buko of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away Tuesday, October 29, 2013 at the age of 77. He and his family moved to Scottsboro, Alabama in 1972 with Halstead and Mitchell. He remained in Scottsboro until after Halstead closed their operations. During this time his wife, Nancy Bibbee Buko passed away after a long struggle with lung cancer, they were happily married for 28 years. He then moved to Greensboro, North Carolina to continue his work for Halstead at their Corporate Head Quarters where he was a very successful businessman. While living in Greensboro he met and married Carolyn Dees Buko, they have been happily married for 26 years. He was born in Zelienople, Pennsylvania to Louis and Mary Buko, graduated from Zelienople High School, served as a Marine during the Korean Conflict and was awarded The National Defense Service Medal for his Service to our Nation. He then attended Penn State University after his Service, although his favorite collegiate teams were Notre Dame and Alabama, with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates being the only professional teams that he vehemently supported. Being a fervent fan he was lucky enough to personally witness The Immaculate Reception at Three Rivers Stadium! He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Rose Webster, his first wife, Nancy Bibbee Buko and three infant sons. He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Carolyn Dees Buko of Jacksonville, Florida, a daughter, Julie Buko Gentry (Russell) of Scottsboro, Alabama, two sons, Stephen William Buko (Diana) and Randy Lee Buko (Mara) both of Atlanta, Georgia, two stepdaughters, Janie Hartley (Bruce) of Jacksonville, Florida and Lynn Meredith (Doug) of Williamsburg, Virginia. Grandchildren include, Nancy Ann and Mary Kate Gentry, Stephen, Morgan and Spencer Buko, Mya and Riley Buko, William Jensen, and Taylor and Madison Meredith. He is also survived by his sister Mary Lou Gallagher (John) of Zelienople, Pennsylvania along with several nieces, nephews and their children. Steve and Carolyn have enjoyed living in Greensboro, North Carolina, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, Richmond, Virginia and with their most recent residence being Jacksonville, Florida where Steve had just completed a new house for their retirement. The couple also enjoyed vacationing and visiting with all of their children and grandchildren over the years. He was a very organized and prideful man within himself while always generously giving his unconditional support and love. He exhibited a great pride in his whole family! His Wife, Children, Grandchildren and friends have all been very fortunate to have had Steve to be a part of their lives. This unique and proud man, Stephen Julius Buko, will be sorely missed by all. The family will receive visitors from 12:00 to 2:00 on Saturday, November 2nd, 2013 at the Scottsboro Funeral Home, followed by a graveside service at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Scottsboro, Alabama.