Ken Arthur Buxbaum, 56, of Caldwell, passed away Monday April 16, 2018. Graveside tribute services are set for 11 am Friday, April 20, at the Bryan City Cemetery, with Certified Life Celebrant Dawn Lee Wakefield officiating.
Ken was born on January 1, 1962 to Mr. and Mrs. Charles Edward Buxbaum in Coronado, CA, and the family ultimately moved to McAlester, OK, where he grew up and graduated from McAlester High School. He was a member of the Baptist faith throughout his life.
His childhood love of baseball presented a challenge. Ken was a gifted left-handed first baseman and the Milwaukee A “farm” team expressed interest in his joining them.
Because he’d grown up in a military family, as his father had been a career Navy man for over 21 years, Ken had a deep sense of military service, and he also considered entering military service. Choosing country over baseball, ultimately, Ken enlisted in the United States Army and was honorably discharged after his tour of duty.
In his career, Ken focused on the construction field, where he was noted for his exceptional memory. He concentrated especially on commercial framing and building remodels.
A sports enthusiast, Ken loved baseball and had faithfully followed the Atlanta Braves since school days. In Bryan, Ken could often be found playing baseball and men’s softball.
Music and being with friends was an important part of Ken’s life in Bryan. He loved classic metal rock, especially the music of Metallica and Aerosmith. His winning smile and social personality made him at home at any party or gathering. Ken had a serious side, too, and was definitely a student of history.
Ken was preceded in death by his father, Charles Edward Buxbaum. Ken is survived by his daughter, Kenna A. Buxbaum of Houston, Texas, and her mother Deborah Cargill, of Bryan Texas; his mother, Pat Herman, of McAlester, Oklahoma; sisters, Kim (Thom) Burkheiser of Rockdale, Texas, Shannan Wilcox of McAlester, Oklahoma, as well as aunts, cousins, nephews, and a host of friends.
In his final days, Ken bravely combatted lung cancer; he appreciated hearing from family and friends who encouraged him in the toughest days. Ken’s daughter Kenna provided her father with devoted care. Those wishing to make gifts in Ken’s memory can find further information at https://www.gofundme.com/funeral-expenses-for-ken-buxbaum.
I so enjoyed knowing Ken, he took up for me one day at work and that made a lasting impression for me. I am one of the housekeepers where Ken resided. He will be missed. RIP my friend