Elmer "The Big E" L. Buck

Elmer “The Big E” Lewis Buck passed away on October 13, 2026, at Kettering Hospital in Dayton, Ohio, with his loving daughter, Viola Cullen, by his side. He was born on October 20, 1935, in Dayton, Ohio, the city that remained both his beginning and his final home.

Elmer will be remembered as a loving, Godly man whose life reflected the faith he proclaimed. For more than 40 years, he served as a pastor, building and founding several churches and devoting himself wholeheartedly to the work he believed he was called to do. He mentored young ministers who flourished under his guidance, and several young people he pastored went on to become missionaries and pastors themselves. Over the years, he led many people to the Lord, leaving a spiritual legacy that reached far beyond the walls of any one church. Those who knew him saw in him a man who preached what he lived—giving, forgiving, generous, and steadfast in his convictions.

Outside the pulpit, Elmer found joy in simple and meaningful pleasures. He enjoyed playing golf, going out to eat with his family, and helping others whenever he could. Even in everyday moments, his mind and heart were often turned toward planning further growth for the churches he pastored, always looking ahead with hope and purpose. His generosity extended widely through donations to numerous charities and other churches, reflecting a life shaped by compassion and service. He also carried a good sense of humor that brought warmth to those around him, and he especially loved being with his family. Among the many memories they will treasure are holiday celebrations together, with Christmas holding a special place as his favorite time of year.

Above all, family was at the center of Elmer’s life. He is survived by his daughters, Donna Hicks, Viola (Mark) Cullen and Doris (Randy) Lundberg; 21 grandchildren; numerous great and great-great-grandchildren, and sister, Marilyn Buck; along with many other family and dear friends. He leaves behind the love of a family who knew his strength, his kindness, his humor, and the depth of his devotion to them and The Lord.

He was preceded in death by Vivian, his beloved wife of 63 years; sons, Roger Lewis Buck, Earl Norman Buck, Michael Lewis Buck; grandchildren, Christopher Joseph Cullen, Derrick Fletcher and great-granddaughter, Heaven Hicks. The love he shared with them remains a lasting part of his story, and their memory remained close to his heart.

Elmer’s life was one of faith, service, generosity, and love. He leaves behind not only cherished family memories, but also the enduring impact of a pastor who helped build churches, encouraged future ministers, and touched countless lives through both word and example. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A visitation will be held from 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. on Friday, October 16, 2026 at Open Door Church of God, 215 S. Franklin St. in Eaton. Service will begin at 6:00 p.m. at the church. An additional visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2026 at Evangel Church of God, 132 N. Smithville Rd. in Dayton. Service will begin at 12:00 p.m. at Evangel Church of God followed by burial at Dayton Memorial Park Cemetery, 8135 N. Dixie Drive. 

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