Shawn Lee Buckley

Shawn Buckley passed away peacefully after a hard-fought battle with multiple health conditions, leaving behind a family who loved him deeply, laughed with him often, and will probably continue telling his stories for years to come—whether those stories are appropriate for all audiences or not. Shawn was one of those people who could make a room more interesting just by being in it. He had a personality that was hard to ignore, a sense of humor that could catch you off guard, and a way of making even ordinary moments memorable. He was stubborn when he wanted to be, funny when you least expected it, and loved by his family more than words can fully explain. Shawn had a gift for being himself—completely, unapologetically, and usually with a comment that made everyone either laugh, shake their head, or both. He was the kind of person who could turn a simple conversation into a story, a family gathering into an event, and a quiet moment into something everyone would remember later. Shawn had a love for low riders, tricked-out cars, and anything with a stereo loud enough to make sure the whole neighborhood knew he had arrived. He loved working on stereos and cars, and he had a special appreciation for anything that could be customized, upgraded, or made just a little bit louder. Although Shawn never had children of his own, he loved his nieces and nephew deeply. In many ways, he considered them his kids, and each of them knew his love in their own way. Whether it was through teasing, joking, checking in, giving advice, or simply showing up as himself, Shawn left a mark on each of them that will never be forgotten. Shawn’s family takes comfort in knowing that he is no longer struggling and that he is reunited with loved ones who went before him. He was preceded in death by his parents Barbara & Barry Buckley and his beloved wife Michell. We imagine there was quite the welcome waiting for him, and we are fairly certain he had something witty to say when he arrived. After years of health struggles, including diabetes that cost him many fingers and toes, we like to picture him arriving whole again—with all his fingers, all his toes, and probably already cracking jokes about it. Shawn leaves behind his sister Bonnie, along with many nieces, nephews, family members, and friends who will miss him deeply. He will be remembered for his humor, his heart, his love of cars and music, and his ability to leave a lasting impression wherever he went. A family get-together will be held at Polly’s to remember (Uncle) Shawn, share stories, laugh, cry, and probably say, “That was so Uncle Shawn” more than once. Plans are being made for Shawn and Michell to be laid to rest together in the ocean in Santa Cruz, a fitting send-off for two people who will remain forever connected in the hearts of those who loved them. In true Shawn fashion, we won’t say goodbye forever—just, “See you later, and try not to cause too much trouble before we get there.”

Shawn Lee Buckley

April 28, 1965 - May 9, 2026