Delores ‘Dee’ (Kleist) Buck, 84

Delores “Dee” (Kleist) Buck passed away Aug. 1, 2018, at her home in Veradale, Wash., surrounded by her children and grandchildren. Dee was born May 26, 1934, to Emil and Margaret (Willmsen) Kleist in Arlington, Minn. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. A few years after graduation, Dee was united in marriage to Orwin “Or” Buck, on May 15, 1955. They soon moved to Owatonna, Minn., and were blessed with three children.

Dee began her career in 1969 with US West as a long distance operator for 25 years until retirement. She was an active member of Redeemer Lutheran Church, alongside Or, for more than 40 years prior to moving to north Idaho to be near their three children and four grandchildren.

The Bucks discovered Twin Lakes Village in Rathdrum, Idaho, and knew immediately it felt like home, especially when they came across Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church near the village. Dee was a faithful member for 18 years, participating in Bible Study, LWMS and Vacation Bible School, where she helped teach and assisted in the kitchen. Dee was an incredible cook and baker, always willing to contribute her wonderful dishes for church functions or neighbors in need — one of her passions throughout her life. Dee also enjoyed family vacations, drives to unique places with Or, biking, hiking, golf (for fun), and her daily walks to include shopping.

In 2008 Orwin passed away, and after eight years of living alone Dee moved in with her youngest daughter and grandson in Veradale, Wash., and enjoyed the many weekend outings, especially to Green Bluff and the coast.

She became a member of Advent Lutheran Church, attending almost every Sunday until last December when her health began to decline. Dee’s family is very proud of her dedication to her faith over the years and the example she set as a devout Christian, making Christ and family her priority. She was a devoted wife and mother, and she cherished being able to watch her grandchildren grow up. Dee will be dearly missed by her friends, her siblings, and especially her children and grandchildren, but will continue to live on in our hearts and memories, forever loved. Her recipes will also live on as we try to get our favorites to taste just like Mom’s.

Dee is survived by her daughter, Darcie and her husband, Chuck McMillen and granddaughter, Danae; her son Kent Buck and his wife and granddaughters, Brianna and Morgen; her daughter, Darla Buck and grandson, Darion; her sister, Gloria (Ken) Hoffmann and her brother, Burnell (Sonja) Kleist. A special thank you to friends and family for your many prayers, visits, cards and meals. Your thoughts and prayers are truly appreciated during this difficult time. God Bless you and yours.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Lewy Body Dementia Association (lbda.org) or Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org). Personal cards may be sent to 4029 S. Terra Verde Drive, Veradale, WA 99037.

A memorial service will be held at noon Wednesday, Aug. 8, 2018, at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, 13541 W. Highway 53, Rathdrum, with a luncheon reception following.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements.