Robert R Bucklin

Robert served honorably as a Corpsman—affectionately known as a “Devil Doc”—in the United States Navy. His time in the military reflected his enduring dedication to supporting those around him with compassion and strength.

Following his military service, Robert returned to New York and became a vital part of both his family’s legacy and the local business community. He worked as a clerk at Bucklin Auto Parts, the family business that connected him to generations of hard work and tradition. Later, he channeled his culinary talents into entrepreneurship as the owner and chef at J.P. Gridley's at the Plaza. His restaurant became not only a place for good food but also a gathering space that reflected his warmth and hospitality.

Robert was deeply committed to civic engagement and community betterment. He volunteered with the Syracuse Police Citizen's Advisory Council and was an alumnus of Leadership Greater Syracuse Class of 2019. As President and Chair of the West Onondaga Street Alliance, he played an instrumental role in fostering neighborhood revitalization and unity.

His spiritual life was equally rich. Robert found meaning and fellowship through worship at both the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Syracuse and St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Chittenango, New York.

Robert is lovingly remembered by his husband, Thomas J. Pierce; his sisters Bonnie J. Phillips and Kimberly A. Bucklin; his brother Christopher R. Bucklin; his stepmother Jeanne E. Bucklin; three nieces; four nephews; and many others whose lives were touched by his generosity and spirit.

He was preceded in death by his mother Gloria J. Bucklin; father E. Rodney Bucklin; mother-in-law Beverly J. Pierce; father-in-law Larry R. Pierce; grandparents; and several aunts and uncles.

A memorial service will be held in late spring in Chittenango, New York. Date and time will be posted on the website of Reed and Benoit Funeral Home of Watertown, New York.

Robert “Bucky” Bucklin’s legacy is one of service—to country, community, family, and friends—and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.