Lela Buckler

Buckler, Lela (Hardt) Tawas City, Michigan formerly of Saginaw, Michigan Lela went home to be with her Lord on Sunday, December 29, 2019 at MediLodge of Tawas City, where she was a resident under the care of Heartland Hospice for nearly two years. She was 100 years old. She leaves behind her three children: Raymond (Claudette) Buckler of Saginaw, Robert (Susan) Buckler of Tawas and Carol (Andrew) Olay of Ottisville. She also leaves behind her eight grandchildren: Christine, Scott, Todd, Brian, Jeff, Jason, Meagan and Michele; great grandchildren: Matthew, Katie, Samantha, Ronald, Lucas, Larissa, Lauren, Conner, Cali, Caiden, Jacy, Karlie, Elizabeth and Jaxxon; and many nieces and nephews. Lela was preceded in death by her parents, husband and siblings: Abe Hardt, Helen Vogel, Martha Deitzel, Esther Sovine and Phyllis Paulus. Lela Hardt was born on September 9, 1919 in Melbeta, Nebraska to the late Jacob and Eva (Fertig) Hardt. When she was 3, her father came to work at the Saginaw Foundry. Lela, her father, mother and two older siblings travelled to Michigan. It was a trip she would always remember, even at her young age. After graduating from Saginaw High School, she attended cosmetology school and worked for several years as a beautician in the Saginaw area prior to marrying and starting her family. Lela married Ray Buckler on June 14, 1941 in Saginaw. (The date is Flag Day and we were often reminded of that fact. Lela was a proud American and loved that she lived in the greatest country on earth). They shared 66 years as husband and wife, until Ray passed away in 2008 at the age of 90. During those years they made many wonderful memories and passed the importance of family onto their children and grandchildren. After Lela's children were all of school age she went to work as a cook supervisor at the Buena Vista School District overseeing the kitchens of several elementary and middle schools. She loved her job and worked there for many years before retiring at the age of 62. After her retirement she joined Ray as a member of Twin Oaks Gold Club in Freeland, where they enjoyed golfing together and individually on golf leagues. The couple traveled together. She also had more free time to devote to her grandchildren. Lela loved to play cards (especially euchre) and did so very well. She was still playing (and winning) well into her mid 90's. Of all the shared moments the grandchildren and great-grandchildren have with Grandma, the card playing would be the first to come to mind. Every holiday and get together ended with much laughter and cards at the table. And just for record, she never cheated on purpose! Lela was the last surviving sibling of both the Hardt and Buckler family. Mom, Grandma, you will be greatly missed. Time will fly by as you celebrate with Dad your new lives. For you guys, it'll seem only a little while, "til we'll all be together again." AMEN FUNERAL: A funeral service for Lela will be held at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State) on Thursday, January 2, 2020 at 1:00 p.m., family and friends will gather at the funeral home on Thursday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Pastor Naomi Krzyzaniak will officiate with burial to follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens. MEMORIALS: Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation to Heartland Hospice. The Deisler Funeral Home, is honored to be serving the Buckler family, condolences may be expressed to the family at the funeral home, or through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com