

Tribute Wall
Loading...
D
Darby Tatsak posted a condolence
Saturday, September 16, 2023
Chip last texted me on August 19. He sent a video link to Fat Man in the Bathtub by Little Feat. We both love that band, and I had seen them a few weeks earlier in Phoenix. Chip texted me regularly, usually attaching pictures. The pictures were of three things: his drums (drum porn), his band, and his family. Mostly the family. His retirement celebration with his family, his mom, weddings, new puppy Gus, his kids, his grandkids. He had the biggest smile on his face in all the pictures because he was so happy and proud. I am proud to have gone through high school with him. I couldn't have asked for a better friend. We had so much fun. He was an amazing drummer and we had a great time in our high school garage band. His loss is overwhelming because he was so full of life and joy. My thoughts are with his entire family. I hope in time you will smile as much as I will when I think of him.
K
Ken and Sandy Wolfe posted a condolence
Thursday, September 14, 2023
Dear Stephanie and family,
We are very sorry for your loss. Chip was the band director in our schools and he was an important member of our school communities. He was kind and compassionate with the students as he prepared them for their future musical endeavors. Chip was a good person and an inspiration to others. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. May your many happy memories comfort you in your grief.
Sincerely,
Ken and Sandy Wolfe
Please wait
D
Dennis Nelson posted a condolence
Thursday, September 14, 2023
From the first time I met Chip as the band director for my daughter Sara Nelson Stockett I could tell what a kind, dedicated professional he was. He was serious about the music and the respect for the music but also always showed tremendous humility and respect for all the students as well. I really got to know him much better when Sara joined the Panhandlers steel drum ensemble. I chaperoned several of the road trips with the Panhandlers and helped with the annual Pig Roast. During those times I never saw Chip without a smile on his face. I also saw the respect on the face of all his students when they looked at him. I saw him recently and as always, he was as friendly and kind as ever. He had a tremendous influence on so many young lives and I will always be grateful for the experiences he shared with our family. The world was a far better place with him in it. You lived well Chip! RIP
A
Alex Hubbard posted a condolence
Wednesday, September 13, 2023
Chip was easily one of the best people I've known in my life and was a big influence on me growing up as a close friend of the family. There are a few things that stick out to me clearly from this time. When Chip saw my interest in reading the Lord of the Rings books, he introduced me to the Silmarillion and the Unfinished Tales and didnt think twice about offering me his copies to borrow. When he saw that I'd taken an interest in playing trombone, he tracked down a beautiful trigger trombone for me. He also often encouraged me to try new things that I was a bit afraid of at the time like water skiing. This carried on into my adulthood when he and Stephanie brought a cake that said "good luck" in Japanese to me before I moved to Japan and he shared his memories of the time he had spent there. He lived life with so much passion and enjoyment, and it was obvious how much he loved to share it with others. Zack, Matt, Emily, and Stephanie, all of you and Chip were like family to me growing up, and you still are. I love you all and you are in my and Van's thoughts.
A
Anna Murphy posted a condolence
Wednesday, September 13, 2023
Chip was one of the WVU Drumline graduate assistants when I was a freshman. He shared his love for music and talent with us throughout my four years there. He always had a smile on his face when I saw him, too. Chip was an essential part of my college experience & memories with the Drumline & the College of Creative Arts. He impacted many lives & will be truly missed.
P
Patricia Stemple posted a condolence
Wednesday, September 13, 2023
I was heartbroken to hear of Mr. Buck's passing. He turned my grandson's life around, gave him pride in himself and a feeling of accomplishment for his musical talent. Pease be with you all in you time of sorrow.
J
Jim and Cindy Clarkson donated to SAVE THE MUSIC FOUNDATION
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
Sending love and many prayers to Stephanie and family.
Please wait
M
Michael D Lynch posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
Chip was one of those upper classmen when I was a percussion major at WVU that always had a smile, a great sense of humor, and an unending willingness to help. I remember his laugh...like it was just yesterday. I have fond memories of the WVU Drumline, Percussion Ensemble, and even ski trips with Chip and the rest of the "Dogs". Several years later, my life took a strange and unexpected path, that led me away from music for several years. I became a state trooper and as luck would have it, eventually got assigned to the Morgantown Detachment. I don't remember the circumstance, but I reconnected with Chip who was teaching in one of the area schools. I want to say somewhere around 1999, Chip contacted me and advised that his son was having a birthday party and he loved law enforcement. Chip asked if I could stop by and let the kids see my cruiser. I went to the party with coloring books and other little things for the kids, then showed them my cruiser with the lights, sirens, and other equipment we used. What stands out in my memory was the smile on Chip's face, seeing how happy his son was on that day...and I thought wow, how awesome it would be to have a dad like Chip, to do that for his son's birthday. But that's the kind of guy Chip was...and in my memory, will always be. I think when a lot of people think of Chip, they will recount numerous stories, and then say...and then there was the time that Chip... I know Chip has reunited with family and friends who have already passed, and he and Chief are probably already scheduling ensemble rehearsals for the time the rest of us can join them. Rest in Peace my friend and I will see you at the Finale.
M
Mike Whitehead posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
I had the privilege of playing music with Chip on a few very different occasions (once with Steel Groovin', once for a somewhat last minute New Year's Eve gig, and most recently in a Jimmy Buffett cover band.) Unfortunately, I was only around Chip a handful of times and always in settings where we had "work" to do- although it certainly never felt like that. His laid-back, genuine nature always made me feel as if I was in the company of an old, dear friend.
P
Presley Weimann uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
/public-file/941/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg

/public-file/942/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg

/public-file/943/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg

Sending all my love, he has a special place in my heart.
B
Brad Martin posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
To all of Chip’s family and loved ones I say how sorry I am for your loss. I knew Chip back when I was a student at WVU and then when I came back to Morgantown in the mind 1990s. I was lucky to have known him and can only imagine how difficult this time is for all of those who love and care for him. I pray that all will focus on the best of times…the laughs, the smiles, and the caring heart that Chip shared with us all.
T
Tom Koon uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
/public-file/939/Ultra/51b78460-af65-4487-9786-495403871a56.jpeg

/public-file/940/Ultra/d55ab205-edcb-4151-bd3c-be5a9dbe51fe.jpeg

To say that Chip Buck was a great band director/ teacher is an understatement. He was a man that loved music and loved opening kids’ eyes to new styles and new ways of playing. From marching in a parade to playing calypso music on steel drums, Chip always brought opportunities to learn and experience music.
My family alone had 10 kids who learned under him from the 1990’s all the way through 2010’s. For me personally, Chip opened a whole new world of music to me that I love to listen and play to this day. He loved all that he taught and never made you feel like you weren’t good enough.
I loved Chip’s honesty. While I can’t say at the time I did, he loved me too much to not let me be embarrassed. I’ll never forget the day he pulled me aside in the band room and said, “Koon! You gotta put on deodorant! No one wants to be the smelly kid!” Such a funny moment to look back on.
I pray that Chip’s family can find peace and comfort during this hard time. We are praying for all you!
M
Mike Whitehead posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
I had the privilege of playing music with Chip on a few very different occasions (once w/ Steel Groovin', once for a somewhat last minute New Year's Eve gig, and most recently in a Jimmy Buffett cover band.) Unfortunately, I was only around Chip a handful of times and always in settings where we had "work" to do- although it certainly never felt like that. His
laid-back, genuine nature always made me feel as if I was in the company of an old, dear friend.
P
Presley Weimann posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
There are no words to explain the impact that he had on my life. The first teacher who helped me see how much love I had for the music. Mr Buck is so much of the reason I pursued a career in the arts. His passion for teaching and support for his students is something I will never forget. My time playing in the Panhandlers was some of the most fun I have ever had. I will cherish these memories forever.
I am deeply grateful to him for so much, his soul will live on in every single kid he taught. We were all blessed to know him. His legacy will live on with his loved ones, I’m sending all my love and support to them. -lots of love.
K
Kathy Westbrook posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
My deepest condolences to your family. I am at a loss so sad to hear this news. What a great person to get to know. First met Chip and Stephanie when they
moved into our neighborhood. Wonderful people and as their family grew they moved to a larger house.
I remember a story my mom told me while she was watching our kids. She had told my son to go and pickup that black hose in the yard. It was a black snake. Chip happened to be outside and heard her scream. He casually came over with a shovel and took care of it. Our hero!
My heart goes out to his family!
Westbrook family
R
Ryan Guthrie uploaded photo(s)
Monday, September 11, 2023
/public-file/938/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg

A man who possessed so many gifts and talents that he could’ve done anything he wanted. Thank God his heart was for teaching and pouring himself in to others. It’s not hyperbole to say he had an impact on generations. I saw it first hand. The respect I had for him only increased when I saw how much my daughter appreciated him. In class he wasn’t a push over, not at all. He treated us fairly and wouldn’t hesitate to hand down 10 minute wall sits as punishment for something stupid I’d done, probably for the 3rd of 4th time. He cared about his students. Enjoyed showing us new things… like turning a group of white kids from Westover onto a “sick” funk band from Oakland… Tower of Power.
He’d get us all tuned up on TOP and then send us out to play some gig he lined up for us at a hot joint like… the women’s Auxiliary meeting at a church in Cheat Lake. “Guthrie, keep that mute in.. you don’t want to be the reason one of these ladies gets wheeled outta here on a gurney.” So sharp with the nuggets of wisdom. If he saw nerves were getting the best of us prior to a “show,” he’d remind us of this… “you could go out there and puke through your horns and everyone in the joint would stand up and cheer.” As a parent now, I see how right he was. I knew it then too. For such a professional, well put together man… I think most of all he taught me not to take myself so seriously and to let myself just enjoy life as it was happening rather than tromping along toward a goal, missing what was happening along the way because what happens along the way, good or bad, is life.
I’m so grateful that he was part of mine and my daughter’s life. To his wife and boys, I’m so sorry this happened. Thank you for sharing him with us. He literally changed lives for the better. Go Ski. Go Terriers.
D
Deb Ferguson posted a condolence
Monday, September 11, 2023
Someone once said that we are never ready to say goodbye to someone we love and that is so true. Stephanie & family, my thoughts and prayers are with you in this most difficult time. I just want to say that Chip was an amazing teacher, band instructor and mentor to my sons, Nathaniel and Rob. And I know that he touched so many lives with his love of music. I can remember the parades, Buckwheat Festivals, Steel Drum Band Concerts, Christmas Concerts and so many more. He truly invested his time with his students. Thank you Chip for your time and the memories! They are forever embedded in our hearts. Deb Ferguson
M
Melody DeFere posted a condolence
Monday, September 11, 2023
Stephanie, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Chip. My deepest sympathy are with you and your family.
Sincerely, Melody DeFere
K
Ken and Ronda (Price) Opipery posted a condolence
Monday, September 11, 2023
We are very saddened to hear of Chip's passing. Stephanie, you are in our thoughts and prayers as well as your children and extended family. God bless you during this difficult time. May you find strength in the love all around you and comfort in the all the wonderful memories.
P
Penny Cottrill posted a condolence
Monday, September 11, 2023
Chip was such a dedicated teacher and such a positive person to teach with at Westwood Middle School He and Stephanie will always be two of our favorite people ❣️ I will miss him but we will see him again.
Love and prayers for his family,
Penny and Charlie Cottrill
F
Frank A. Witt, III posted a condolence
Sunday, September 10, 2023
I was blessed to get to know Chip when I started in the teaching field for a brief stint at Westover Junior High in the spring of 1988. Chip was one of the kindest and caring persons I know to this day. He always carried a pleasant disposition and enjoyed a good prank as well. Then fast forward to Fall of 2022, my son who is a drummer and teaches drum lessons at Fawleys music came home one day and said dad do you know Chip Buck and I replied absolutley and he is s fantastic person. My son said he got to meet Chip and enjoyed talking with him as Chip was helping out at Fawleys. My deepest thoughts and prayers are with the entire family....Frank A. Witt, III
A
Ann Lawson posted a condolence
Sunday, September 10, 2023
I had the good fortune of my having classroom located directly across the hall from Chip for much of the last 20 plus years (before both our retirements) where I could often hear band practice and rehearsals. It was hard not to get in the holiday spirit as they practiced for the Christmas concert, marched around the school in preparation for parades, and of course, the steel drum rehearsals and annual pig roast. Chip's super power was inspiring his students through his own passion for music which culminated in drawing out the very best from his students, as was evident in every single performance at Westwood. He did this with a great sense of humor and a smile on his face. Chip has had an incredible impact on the lives of hundreds of students (and friends and colleagues), where his presence and legacy will be felt for many years.
C
Charlene Horan *Adams) posted a condolence
Sunday, September 10, 2023
If ever there is a good man it was Chip Buck. He was the music instructor of our 3 Adams kids. Perfect combo of friendship and fun and expecting them to all to do well. A wonderful man who took them skiing on his own time. Took them to play the steel drums. I am sure that enriched my boys lives. We are so sad about his dying. The world is a less good place without him. We want his family to know how much he was respected and loved by his students.
Charlene Horan and Jim Adams (parents of Joe, Charley and Rachel Adams)
N
Nick Katsakis posted a condolence
Sunday, September 10, 2023
Chip was a wonderful teacher, mentor, and friend. He taught me to play the saxophone, something that changed my life forever. When I became a school teacher, he was the one I tried to emulate most. After I became a diplomat, Chip and I would sometimes discuss the issues of the day. He kept me grounded and made sure I never forgot the folks back home I swore to serve. He was a great man and proof of the positive impact teachers can have on their students. May he rest in peace.
P
Patrick Wells posted a condolence
Sunday, September 10, 2023
Chip was a very positive influence and someone who always knew right from wrong, and how to teach it. I remember those countless nights of hockey like they happened yesterday. You will be dearly missed sir.
W
Wyn Johnson posted a condolence
Sunday, September 10, 2023
My deepest sympathy to Stephanie and Family,
As I think back to my days of teaching at Westwood Middle School, I fondly remember Chip as a colleague that always brought a smile and a sense of happiness to everyone. His love and gift of music enriched the entire staff and all of the students for many years. The making of the "Westwood Panhandlers Groovin" CD was only one of his numerous incredible achievements.
Chip also shared his joy of outdoor adventure with our Westwood family. He helped to organize and chaperone school ski trips to Canaan Valley Resort and Wisp along with Ray Petrisin, Erin Edens, and myself. He patiently buckled ski boots, helped students on to the chair lift, and guided and encouraged them to ski down the slopes. After navigating their way to the bottom of the hill, the person waiting to greet them with the biggest and brightest smile was Chip.
He will be deeply missed by all that were fortunate enough to have known him.
Sincerely, Wyn Johnson
M
Mike Roberts posted a condolence
Sunday, September 10, 2023
As everyone agrees,
Chip was a great band director and teacher. He had high standards for himself and his students. He set goals and worked to achieve those goals. Chip was the best - my friend and my colleague, missed but never forgotten.
P
Polly Miller uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, September 10, 2023
/public-file/937/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg

Together again❤️
J
Jeff Sizer uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, September 9, 2023
/public-file/936/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg

This picture is one given to me by Mr. Buck, some 30 years later in an envelope with “The good old days” written on the front. That they were, at Westover Jr. High. All I feel when I think of him is gratitude. I was blessed to have known him.
K
Kayla Haugen (Kanosky) uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, September 9, 2023
/public-file/932/Ultra/255fd2c3-a197-419c-ae5e-92b65e5d9460.jpeg

/public-file/933/Ultra/82c68a57-222e-441c-8e05-4e55f0ef056a.jpeg

/public-file/934/Ultra/72a58368-b311-4762-b8e3-ef91f49ec973.jpeg

/public-file/935/Ultra/9b2e1885-4b40-43a1-9a16-92a5ff8c3b10.jpeg

Mr. Buck was truly an amazing person! I had the privilege to have him teach me for 4 years starting in 5th grade. His love for music and us students was evident. He treated every single person like his own. I will always be so thankful for him and how he impacted my love for music. He taught me so much about music and life. He always had a smile on his face and could make anyone laugh. His positivity rubbed off on everyone. One of my favorite memories with him was when he rode the Pitt Fall with us at Kennywood! He will be missed so much. Condolences and prayers to his family.
R
Rob Whitesides posted a condolence
Saturday, September 9, 2023
As the youngest little brother of long time summer family friends of the Lojewskis, I met Chip back when he and Stephanie were just dating. I have many memories of Chip and Stephanie out on the lake, at family dinners at our house, and after church at the Friary during “fellowship” time.
During my coming of age years approaching and through college, Chip was like an additional older brother, poring some of life’s wisdom into me. I had always been a little chubby and self conscious. One particular summer when I was working at a local septic tank company and was able to share a beer with him and some of the other extended Lojewski men-Mike, Yosh, etc. after work, I remember us talking about random things. We somehow got onto a discussion of pants waist sizes - they were all early middle-aged men with families and here I was a young college single guy…and I remember him asking about the size jeans I was wearing. I told him the size, and he said in his regular fashion and smile, “gee mo-ney, wait till you hit your 30s my brother, things will change”. I took that as a challenge as I got older. Chip always had that smile and a heart that let you know he was listening to you.
Over the years as I started my own family I’d still see him from time to time on visits up to the lake house. I saw his family grow, as well as learn about his amazing band-related accomplishments. I re-careered once myself to teach middle school for nine years, and my two girls are now in our high school marching band down near Atlanta. I volunteer closely with our directors moving equipment for practices and game nights and prop construction, so I’m well aware of the dedication and time spent with students. I’m sure over 35 years Chip has touched and influenced many lives and generations of students. He will be missed and loved very much.
Stephanie, you’ll always be my first childhood crush, and I know you’re an amazing mother and grandmother. I hope your grand children will come to learn about Chip as well as I’m sure your children and you know. Robin and I want to extend our love to you, Zack, Matthew, and Emily and their families.
B
Brandon Antion posted a condolence
Friday, September 8, 2023
I was fortunate to be taught by and later work with Mr. Buck at Westover Jr. High School and Westwood respectively. The memory of his energy and kindness have continued to guide my own career working with students. He was a model of innovation in education that thirty years later I and many others strive to emulate. It is my sincere hope that his family finds peace in the knowledge he will live on in the field of education through the many people he inspired to work with kids.
M
Marcia Campbell posted a condolence
Friday, September 8, 2023
Stephanie, you and your sweet family are in our thoughts and prayers. Peace and strength be with you.
Joe and Marcia Campbell
G
Ginny Armstrong posted a condolence
Friday, September 8, 2023
I am so sorry to hear of Chip's passing. He was the drumline instructor for my last year in high school and then we were both students in the percussion department at WVU. I always found him to be so funny, kind, and supportive of everyone. I remember how helpful he was to me as a nervous Freshman by always stopping to help when I had questions. In fact, I just recently showed one my students something he had written in one of my books to help me understand a difficult passage. Wishing peace and comfort to his family and all who loved him.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Ginny Armstrong
L
Leilani Davis posted a condolence
Friday, September 8, 2023
As we remember Chip, his infectious laughter, constant smile and desire to create the love of music will always be in our minds. His imprint on the Westwood band, Panhandlers, and on all of us will be a testament to the wonderful and good man he was. Both of my children were members of the Westwood Band and the Panhandlers. I worked with Chip closely for 6 years as part of the boosters, going on every band trip over 6 years, I grew to respect him so much as a teacher and a friend. To the Buck family, Stephanie, Matt, Zack and Emily I hope these words let you know that you are not alone in your grief.
R
Rob Ferguson posted a condolence
Friday, September 8, 2023
What an amazing man. So sad to hear this news. I was privileged to know Mr. Buck since I was 12 and he helped me be the first set player in the first Westwood Panhandlers band. He pushed me to be a better drummer and a better man. He embodied what a teacher should be and was more like a parent to most of us kids. Mr Buck invested in our lives. He really cared about us and put in a lot of extra time. He understood how music helps everyone and he made learning fun. Even when he got mad he could make us laugh. He had great one-liners that I still use to this day. I am praying for all of the family. Know that there is a return on Mr. Bucks investment. He helped turn A LOT of turds (he liked that word) into diamonds. Thank you Mr. Buck. -Robby
J
Jeffrey Pozzuto posted a condolence
Friday, September 8, 2023
Went to high school with Chip. A great guy and friend. Prayers to the family.
B
Brandy Bell posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
“The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.”
—William Arthur Ward
I am sorry for your loss. He was my band teacher in 5th grade at Westover Elem. in 2000, through Westwood middle to 8th grade in 2004. He is the reason to this day I still love my instrument and cannot wait to go to his class. He had a passion for teaching every day and was proud of us on every occasion. He made every event magical and memorable to me. He made sure kids could afford instruments and made sure they were repaired. He will be greatly missed but through the teachings of his music, he will live on.
Thank you,
Brandy Bell (Barnett)
L
Len Haney uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, September 7, 2023
/public-file/931/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg

This is a photo of me and my Asst. Principal Hub Holdsworth. Chip came to me and said he needed me to be Santa for one of his Christmas concerts at Westwood. Only Chip would have been able to get me to say yes. He somehow even had a suit on hand that fit me. During that concert, with Skyviews’ students in attendance, Santa” was able to call up some snow and an early dismissal for everyone. True story! Chip is my dear friend. He is one of the kindest, most generous, and most dedicated men I have ever known. He loved his profession and his students. My life has been truly enriched by working with him and being able to call him my friend.
J
Jim Davis uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, September 7, 2023
/public-file/930/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg

Prayers for Stephanie and the kids. Chip was a great guy who lived life to the fullest. Chip was my son’s hockey coach for many years and I had the pleasure of getting to know Chip and his son Zack during the “hockey years”. Chip always had a smile on his face and was such a good role model for the kids as well as the adults. Everyone loved Chip. RIP my friend.
D
Dennis Cramer posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
I am at a loss. Chip was in high school when I began teaching and I was always a fan of his talent, drive & personality, certainly traits he earned from Keith. He was a consummate musician, teacher and human being. I am sure he and Keith are playing drums in heaven with Bill McGann looking on.
J
Jackie Tatsak posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
Thoroughly devastated by this news. The Buck family was an extension of ours. They lived 2 houses down from us, and Chip was in our basement most of the time. He was playing drums for Streamline with my sister Darby, Bud, and Jim. Beth was in my class. Keith was our doctor. I remember my parents calling him one day that there was a turkey in our backyard and he was ready to come shoot it - and not even turkey season. I send my condolences to all of the family and pray for healing. Chip was certainly special to our family, and I can only hope he's sharing stories with his dad and my parents. I know my parents are with him, as he was a son to them. May you rest in peace beloved soul! Keep playing those drums!
R
Rebecca Bonner Ringer posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
My deepest condolences to Chip's family. He was one of my favorite people of all time. He recognized musical talent in my son Darren, and suggested private lessons to develop that talent. Darren played in Westwood Panhandlers, and we accompanied them on several road trips. Chip was a very real class act as a band director. He was a true teacher and mentor to countless young musicians. He is gone far, far too soon.
L
Linda Moore uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, September 7, 2023
/public-file/929/Ultra/add3f008-f547-4f88-a521-8acc3808008b.jpeg

There simply aren't words to describe how important Chip was to the Moore family, and to the thousands of kids who picked up an instrument under his tutelage. Our deepest sympathies to Mrs. Buck, Stephanie, Zachary, Matthew, and Emily. Thank you for sharing him with us. You are and will remain in our prayers during the difficult days ahead. And Chip, thank you. Thank you for everything you did.
Linda and Paul Moore
A
Alison Kimble posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
Unlike the majority of kids I absolutely loved middle school and Mr. Buck was one of the main reasons. Mr. Buck sparked a new love for music in my middle school years. He was a phenomenal music instructor and musician himself but he made the experience of learning to read and play music so much fun. He helped me learn to play the alto saxophone for jazz band and always encouraged me to continue playing the flute as he always saw potential in me. He was one of the best and I only have wonderful memories of him. My sincerest condolences to his family.
“Tell the DJ to play your favorite tune
Then you know it's okay
What you found is happiness, now.”
Earth, Wind and Fire - Let’s Groove (as performed by the Westwood Middle School band during the Mon Co Fair parade in ~2004)
A
Aaron Simpson posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
From learning from Mr. Buck to performing with him this past April it was amazing to see how many people he was able to teach and those same people are now flourishing in music thanks to him
D
David Hubbard uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, September 7, 2023
/public-file/928/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg

I will truly miss you good friend!!
A
Angie Swisher posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
Chip Buck had a great impact on son’s our life. Chip watched over Andrew in the band and steel drum band at Westwood Middle School during the early years of 2000. Andrew died in 2016 and I will never forget Chip’s kindness, filled with emotion, when he expressed his sorrow for us. He never forgot one of his students. God bless his entire family. He will be sorely missed by our entire community.
C
Carolyn Buchman posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
Stephanie and family,
I am sorry to hear of Chip’s passing. What a tragedy for your family. You have my prayers. Memories sustain us. Each time we remember we meet again with those we love, for the heart never forgets. This verse helped me when Larry passed. I pray it does the same for all of you. This is hard. Love, Carolyn Buchman
B
The family of Richard "Chip" Buck uploaded a photo
Thursday, September 7, 2023
/tribute-images/1311/Ultra/Richard-Chip-Buck.jpeg

Please wait
B
Brenda Staggs posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
I really enjoyed the band programs. He was my daughter's & granddaughters band director. They both loved him & learned alot from him. We heard the steel drums that he taught. It was an awesome performance. Comforting prayers for the family & the students that he taught. He definitely will be leaving a memorable legacy. May God be with you all. RIP The Staggs Family.
J
JOY FAINI SAAB posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
I will always remember Chip's smile, every time we met. He was a great musician and so positive and supportive of the Chief and our family. Our prayers are with you.
Sincerely, Joy Faini Saab
L
Laura VanHorn posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
I was teaching at Riverside and was ecstatic when Chip started the steel drum band at Westwood. I still remember walking into the pig roast and Chip dedicating “Brown Eyed Girl” to me, one of my favorite songs.
It was always a thrill to pull into the parking lot at the Honi and see Queen City’s name on the marquis. Just the best.
Such a talented musician and gifted educator. His legacy in Morgantown will be long lasting. The hole in your hearts will be huge. I hope you find comfort in the words that you hear and the memories that you hold in your hearts. Many prayers of comfort to all of you.
Laura VanHorn
C
Cindy Parsons posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
I first met Chip when I started teaching at Westwood Middle. He had the most infectious smile and personality! He was a jokester and made me laugh everyday even when I didn’t feel like it.
He was an amazing musician, friend and teacher! I loved to watch him play with Queen City Funk and Soul! His students loved him and it showed in the band and steel drum band!
Heaven gained a wonderful Angel and I am sure he is entertaining all!
He will forever be missed by all!
D
David Custer posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
What a great man Chip was! I will miss seeing him around and his smile. He was a great teacher and the kids loved him. I had the privilege to be with him during soccer, steel drum shows, watching his band and other events. He was very supportive of my two daughters during their time with him playing music.
I'm sorry I can't be there to say goodbye to him since I will be out of town but will always remember our time together. Rest in peace Chip.
J
Joanne Hines posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
Chip was one of the best people I’ve ever known. Working with him at Westwood was my pleasure. He shared his love of music with thousands of kids and with so many of us. We will always remember his kindness, his talent, and his love and dedication to his family. Godspeed Chip…Godspeed.
S
Sean Whipkey posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
He was my drum teacher for a long time and I always really appreciated the time he spent with me.
D
Dave Posney posted a condolence
Thursday, September 7, 2023
My favorite music memories and early skiing memories include Chip. He was destined to be a teacher because when we met in high school, he was the one to always have the patience to make sure I was getting my percussion part right or keeping up on the slopes. Introducing me to the Kittanning Fireman's Band only made for more adventures and brought out the 'best' in many of us. The road trips, bus trips, stories, laughs and good times are cherished memories that I will never forget. Anyone who ever knew Chip was Blessed. The entire Buck Family is on our prayers.
Share Your Memory of
Richard "Chip"
Be the first to upload a memory!
Send Flowers
Our Local Florists are committed to offering only the finest floral arrangements backed by their professionalism and prompt service.
> LEARN MORE
Obituaries & Tributes
Visit our online tribute pages and view pictures, leave a gesture or leave a condolence for a family member, friend or loved one
> LEARN MORE
Contact Us
We invite you to contact us at any time if you have questions, comments or concerns. We are happy to assist you in anyway we can.