Walter (Bucky) M. Hines

Walter (Bucky) M. Hines, known affectionately as Bucky to his friends and family, passed away on March 6, 2024, at the age of 62. Born on November 8, 1961, in Evergreen Park, Illinois, Bucky was a man whose zest for life and boundless creativity left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He departed this world in the peaceful surroundings of Rolling Prairie, Indiana, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and innovation. Bucky was preceded in death by his parents, Walter M. and Florence M. (DuBois) Hines. He is survived by his loving brothers, Robert Hines (married to Barbara) and Thomas Hines (married to Marcia); his sisters, LuAnn Smith (married to Robert Smith) and Catherine Halter (married to Jeffrey Halter); as well as his adored nephews, Adam Hines (married to Megan), Jim Schwingendorf (married to Amanda), Mark Halter (married to Jessica), and David Halter; and his cherished nieces, Allison Haley and Lauren Hines (married to JD Huff). A proud graduate of Holy Rosary Elementary School and Marist High School in Chicago, Bucky's academic journey culminated in a degree in Industrial Design from Lewis University. His educational background laid the foundation for a remarkable career. Bucky's tenure as a Senior Structural Designer at Outform, (formerly Rapid Displays) in Chicago since 1988 was marked by numerous awards and national recognition, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. Beyond his professional achievements, Bucky was a passionate member of the U.S. Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association. His love for the skies was most evident when he was soaring above Saugany Lake, his favorite place and the backdrop for many of his adventures. Bucky's love for life was infectious, and he had an uncanny ability to touch the lives of many with his adventurous spirit, innovative mind, and humor. The tales of Bucky's creations at Saugany Lake are legendary. His imaginative spirit knew no bounds, from water slides to steam-powered popcorn machines, remote-controlled alligators to life-sized cannons, hamster bubbles to remote hot air balloons. Each new invention was a source of excitement and curiosity, leaving friends and family in awe and anticipation of what he would dream up next. Bucky was the embodiment of a modern-day Peter Pan, a man who never lost the joy and wonder of childhood. Those who knew Bucky would describe him as adventurous, funny, and intelligent. His ability to see the world through a lens of endless possibilities made him a beacon of inspiration. His humor was a gift that he shared generously, bringing smiles and laughter to even the most ordinary of days. His intelligence was not just in his ability to design and create but in the way he understood and cared for those around him. As we say goodbye to Walter (Bucky) M. Hines, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest, a life filled with adventure, laughter, and love. Bucky's story does not end here; it carries on in the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy that will continue to inspire and delight for generations to come. A celebration of Bucky’s life will begin at 1 p.m. CST, on Saturday, July 6, 2024 at the Saugany Lake Beach. Arrangements have been entrusted to Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel in La Porte, Indiana. Memorial contributions may be made to the U.S. Powered Paragliding Association, www.USPAA.org or Hospice Foundation of America, www.hospicefoundation.org To light a virtual candle, share a story of Bucky’s life or leave a message of comfort for his family, please visit www.EsslingFuneralHome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Walter (Bucky) M. Hines, please visit our floral store.