It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Mary Buckminster who at age 84, was reunited with her husband Richard and daughter Mona in heaven on Saturday, June 7, 2025.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at 11:30 am at Bethany Lutheran Church in Wisconsin Dells. Visitation will be held at Bethany Lutheran Church from 10:00 am until the time of service at 11:30 am.

Mary leaves behind a legacy that will forever be cherished by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was born at home in Big Spring, WI on October 24, 1940 to Foster and Helen (Lapp) Hodge. Mary met her high school sweetheart Richard (Dick) Buckminster while playing the trombone in band, and the two married 65 years ago on September 19, 1959. The couple resided in the same Coldwater Canyon home in which Dick was raised, and they operated the family's Dells Boat Tours concessions business in Witches Gulch, Stand Rock, and the Original Wisconsin Ducks for 38 years, allowing their children (Monica, Marsha, Marian, and Mona), grandchildren (Jason, Nicole, and Sean), and great grandchildren (Jaxon, Autumn, and Olivia) to cultivate a deep appreciation for Wisconsin Dells history and a vast collection of artifacts. Mary had an extraordinary zest for life, and her warm, welcoming spirit touched everyone she met. She found immense joy in the simple yet profound pleasures of life, particularly in the company of her family and friends, with whom she shared countless memories over meals at local restaurants and games of cards. Mary's gentle laughter and competitive spark at the card table will remain etched in our hearts forever.

For many years, Mary spent her winters in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, a place she held dear, enjoying sunny days that mirrored the warmth of her personality. But no matter the season or location, Mary's kitchen was truly the heart of her home. Her seasonal recipes – such as Gulch barbeque, venison stew, and caramel corn, were legendary, and her dishes were more than just food—they were love, served with a side of tradition and comfort.

Mary's legacy is one of love, service, and connection, and she will be remembered not only for the life she lived but for the lives she touched. Her dedication and hardworking nature shone brightly in her contributions to the community through annual golf outings to raise funds for the Dells food pantry, volunteering at Bethany Lutheran Church, and engaging in philanthropic events with her sorority.

Mary leaves behind a family who adored her deeply and countless friends who were blessed by her kindness and generosity. While we mourn her loss, we celebrate her life and the indelible mark she left on this world. She taught us the value of hard work, the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones, and the beauty of giving back to the communities we hold dear. Mary, your love was a gift that we will carry with us always and will continue to inspire us every day.

Mary is survived by her daughters, Monica Rector (John), Marsha Buckminster (Eddie Sedar), and Marian Kendall (Troy McCann); grandchildren, Jason Rector (Summer), Nicole Cayo (Michael), and Sean Kendall (Marin); great grandchildren, Jaxon and Autumn Rector, and Olivia Kendall. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband (Dick), and daughter (Mona).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bethany Lutheran Church. The family would like to send a special thanks to the caregivers at Riverwood Senior Living in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin and to Amy and Kim of SSM Health Hospice.