STILLMAN VALLEY — Mark Kingsbury Bucey, aged 71, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in the early hours of May 3, 2024, at Serenity House in Oregon, Illinois. His final days were blessed with the presence of his close family and friends, comforting him after a long struggle with adenocarcinoma.
Born to Silas Shirley and Rose Mae Bucey, Mark’s roots were planted deeply in Stillman Valley, Illinois. His life exemplified the values he cherished—faith in Christ, devotion to family, and loyalty to people and place. He never ventured far from his boyhood home, choosing instead to nurture and build upon the foundations laid by generations before him. This commitment to community was mirrored in his long-standing membership and service as an elder at both Kishwaukee Community Presbyterian Church in Stillman Valley and Providence Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Rockford, Illinois.
Mark earned his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Technology in 1975 from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois. This education prepared him for a 45-year career at Gunite Corporation in Rockford. His diligence, integrity, and expertise made him a respected voice and trusted advisor within the company.
Predeceased by his daughter, Kristen Sarah Bucey, his legacy is carried on by his wife of 46 years, Pamela Jo Bucey (née Barnes); his siblings, Charles, Betty Ann, and Silas “Tim”; his sons, Camden (Erica), Kelly (Julia), and Kipton (Kayla); and his adored grandchildren, Derek, Benjamin, Miles, Jonathan, Matsey, Joel, David, and Graham.
Mark was a kind, gentle man who sought to live a life worthy of the calling he received. His greatest comfort lay in the promise of the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:35–58), a hope to which he clung firmly and steadfastly. Mark ran the race well, in the strength of the Lord, and leaves behind an enduring legacy for his family, friends, and the community and place to which he belonged.
Visitation for Mark Kingsbury Bucey will be held on Friday, May 10, from 4 to 7 PM at Kishwaukee Community Presbyterian Church (8195 Kishwaukee Road, Stillman Valley, IL 61084). A funeral service will be conducted at the same location on Saturday, May 11 at 1 PM, followed immediately by a graveside service at Kishwaukee Cemetery next to the church. Attendees are then invited to return to the church for light refreshments and further fellowship. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Providence Orthodox Presbyterian Church (send checks payable to the church to: 5912 Bradley Rd. Byron, IL 61010) or Serenity House (1658 S. Illinois Route 2, Oregon, IL 61061). To leave an online condolence please visit www.farrellhollandgale.com
