Vern "Bucky" Killen
November 19, 2021
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Service Details
Vern “Bucky” Russell Killen, age 75, passed away on Friday, November 19, 2021 at Mercy Hospital. He was born on November 6, 1946, in Des Moines, Iowa, the son of John and Betty (Johnson) Killen.
Bucky drove truck his whole life and worked for several different companies throughout the years. He loved being on the road. Bucky and Linda would travel all over the US just because they could.
Bucky was an avid stock car racing driver and fan. He raced all over the state of Iowa and then would travel to Texas, Oklahoma, and other places to watch the races. He met so many friends over the years that he treasured so much.
Bucky is lovingly survived by his brother, Eddie (Pam) Killen; grandchildren, Jeremy (Tabatha) Killen, Josh (Tina) Killen, Brad (Kayla) Killen, Brittany Killen, and Amanda Shimer; great-grandchildren, Mckenzie, Sevanah, Khrysler “Booda”, Joshua, Lilly, Makaela, Ryan, and Aubree; special nephew, Tom (April) Killen Jr.; numerous nieces and nephews; and so many other family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Linda; daughters, Barbara Killen and Carol Kalar; brothers, Johnny Killen, Tommy Killen Sr., Bill Killen, and Donnie (Terri) Killen; and sister, Linda Reed.
Family will greet friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday November 27, 2021 at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. A funeral service will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home with interment to follow at Carlisle Cemetery.
Condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Brent Killen
11/24/2021
Uncle Vern "Buck" Killen was the living king of our family. He was the bridge for those who did not know Big John / Grandpa Killen. He was one of the best fathers that anybody could ask for, and the most loyal husband of over fifty years to Linda Killen. He was the most supportive grandfather that any kid could ask for. His wallet, his couch, and his food was always there for every single family member, no questions asked. Always filling the role of the Killen family caretaker, while being a brother/father figure to his siblings, nieces and nephews. Vern was the best truck driver that's ever had the last name Killen. Uncle Buck was the definition of loyalty and honor within the Killen family. It was never a mystery whether he loved you, and I'm just very thankful that he was a hundred percent aware that I loved him, and how much. This family has produced so many people that were great in their own little ways, who are no longer with us. Now Uncle Buck is with them, probably still doing what Uncle Buck always did, being supportive, being encouraging, and never giving anybody any doubt about how great they can be. I think I speak for everyone who really took the time to get to know Uncle Buck. Undisputedly, he was one of the greatest men I've ever known. I'm so honored to have shared all the conversations that me and him have had together. We should always honor great people to the fullest. Just because they passed, it doesn't mean they no longer shine. My uncles and aunts shined on earth, they will continue to shine in heaven, shine in my heart, and continue to shine when I speak of them. Vern "Buck" Killen shined on earth, now go shine in heaven Uncle Buck, the way you're shining right here in these words.
Dianna (hilding) Wiegert
11/22/2021
So sad to learn of Buckys passing. Such a nice guy and great friend. He is now reunited with his wife, daughters, and other family members. Sending thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Joe & Amy Welch
11/22/2021
Eddie, Pam & family,
So sorry to hear of Bucky getting his wings.
Natasha stark
11/21/2021
Bucky was a great man glad I got to know him. Loved listening to him talk about the races.