Gerald D. Buker, 78

Gerald (Jerry) D. Buker, M.D., 78, of Whitefish “went to be with the Lord” Sept. 19, 2017.

Gerald was born to missionary parents (Richard S. and Minola Buker) May 30, 1939 in Kentung, Burma (Myanmar). After attending international schools, he graduated from Stony Brook High School (N.Y.). He met Tiann (DeLong) Buker, his loving wife of 57 years, while attending Wheaton College. Upon completing medical school at Columbia University: College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City, Dr. Buker joined the Public Health Service and practiced as a general surgeon in Maryland, New Mexico, and Montana. He was passionate about his life’s work, achieving the distinction of a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Buker continued to practice surgery following his retirement from the PHS both in private practice and medical mission work.

He was an avid outdoorsman enjoying hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, backpacking and golfing. He was actively involved in his community as a member of the Rotary Club. He lived out his faith serving in church leadership, teaching Sunday School, and as a member of the Gideons International. His life provided an example of godly leadership. His family cherishes their memories of him as a devoted and loving husband and father.

Dr. Buker is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife (Tiann) and three daughters: Cynthia Allison (Donald), Karen Bellm (Tim), and Eva Buker. He was the loving grandfather of Carissa and Jeremy Bellm. He is also survived by his brother, Dr. Richard S. Buker Jr. of Chester, his cousin, the Rev. Raymond Buker Jr. of Evergreen, Col., and his brother Maj. Gen. Robert Buker, MD (deceased Sept. 25, 2017).

“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” —Hebrews 10:23