Mervyn W. “Bucky” Stevens, II, 71, of Galesburg, died at 12:20 p.m. Monday, September 23, 2019 at home.
Bucky was born January 30, 1948 in Galesburg, the son of Mervyn William “Buck” and Virginia Ruth (Kinsella) Stevens. Bucky is survived by one son, Sam (Kari) Stevens of Gilson; two daughters, Amy (Don) Liston of Terre Haute, IN and Heidi (Ed) Blakely of St. Charles; four grandchildren, Theresa Selcke, Stefanie Blakely, Jessica Blakely, and Gavyn Stevens; and two great grandchildren, Easton and Mackenzie Ridener. He was preceded in death by his parents; and one grandson, Jeremy Selcke.
Bucky was a heavy equipment operator for Local 649 Operators Union, retiring in 2010. Bucky was close to his mother and was very proud of his children and grandchildren. The past several years, forgiveness became an important part of Bucky’s life. He was able to hand down the 150-year family farm to his son and enjoyed spending time there, including building a pond on the property.
Cremation rites will be accorded. Graveside services will be 1 p.m. Friday, September 27, 2019 at the Knoxville Cemetery, Knoxville. A celebration of life will begin following the cemetery services at the Roadhouse Sportsbar, 1101 E. Main St., Knoxville, IL. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you do the things you’ve always wanted, but have never done. Fly the Stearman. Write the book. Say you’re sorry. Forgive and forget. Do these things in memory of Bucky. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com
