Florence A. Bucklin

Florence A. Bucklin, age 94, of Bedford Township, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, September 13, 2015 at the Laurels of Bedford where she has resided for the past 6 years and was affectionately known as "grandma" by the other residents and the caring staff. She was born in Battle Creek on June 8, 1921, the loving daughter of Glenn and Laura (Severance) Leedle, graduated from Battle Creek Central High School and was a lifetime area resident.

Florence married Raymond "R.L." Bucklin in Bryan, Ohio on July 5, 1940; he sadly preceded her in death on May 25, 2009. She was also preceded in death by her son, Barry L. Bucklin in 2001; two great-grandsons; her brothers, Frank and John Leedle, and her sisters, Alice Cochensparger and Melva Benedict. Florence is survived by her four children, Sharon (Jerry) Baird of Battle Creek, Raymond B. (Susie) Bucklin of Kalamazoo, Gerald R. (Linda) Bucklin of Battle Creek, and Shelia (Gary) Shelton of Florida; a daughter-in-law, Beverly Bucklin of Battle Creek; 12 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.

Florence was a member of the Marshall Moose Lodge #676 & the former Battle Creek Moose Lodge, and United Commercial travelers. She enjoyed traveling, camping, fishing, bowling and playing Bingo. Florence loved flower gardening, ceramics, crocheting and spending time with her family.

At the request of the family, they will receive friends 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 16, 2015 at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care where funeral services to celebrate her life will be held 1:00 p.m., Thursday, September 17, 2015. Interment will follow at Bedford Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the Alzheimers Association. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.