Darryl Lynn "Buck" Ewing, age 77, of North Platte, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, December 27, 2024, after a short battle with cancer, surrounded by his loving family.
Buck was born on March 23, 1947, in North Platte, Nebraska, to William Edward "Ted" Ewing and Irma Dorothy (Jahn) Ewing. He was the beloved brother of Don Ewing. From an early age, he was an avid duck hunter and fisherman, often waking before dawn to head out with his Grandpa Jahn and Uncle Al—sometimes even skipping school to join them. He also loved hunting with his longtime buddy, Tommy, cherishing every trip they took. Buck excelled at baseball, proudly playing for the North Platte American Legion Baseball Team, and graduated from North Platte High School in 1965. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving his country honorably.
After his military service, Buck began a dedicated career with the Union Pacific Railroad, starting as a carman and later becoming an engineer. In his younger years, he enjoyed the thrill of bull riding. Over time, he developed a deep passion for golf, often playing with his wife, children, grandchildren, and friends. He especially looked forward to golf trips, where many cherished memories were made.
Buck also loved music—particularly the oldies—and the 4th of July was by far his favorite holiday. He was known for putting on the best fireworks displays, complete with an unforgettable grand finale, and enjoyed nothing more than taking his grandkids shopping for fireworks. A true sports fan, Buck made a point to attend as many of his grandchildren's sporting events as possible during their high school years. He was proud of all their endeavors and never missed an opportunity to cheer them on. Buck was right there when his grandson Taylor ventured into cage fighting, watching and learning to love the sport alongside him. A true animal lover—especially when it came to cats—he adored his beloved cat, Milo, who was also a cherished companion.
Outside of work and family, Buck took immaculate care of his yard—often spending hours meticulously pulling weeds and making sure everything looked just right. He also had a remarkable talent for carpentry and was a perfectionist in every project he took on—building decks, patios, carports, and more. He did extensive remodeling work on his own home, his children's, and his mother's home, leaving behind lasting, tangible examples of his skill and dedication.
Buck was first married to Peggy Reber, and together they had two children: Scott and Christine Holly. On December 29, 1995, he married Cathy, who brought four children to their union—children Buck loved as his own. Together, they shared nearly three decades of love and companionship. A devoted father, stepfather, grandfather, son, brother, and husband, Buck treasured every moment spent with his family and friends and would drop anything to help them.
Buck leaves behind his wife, Cathy; his brother, Don (Carolyn) Ewing from Peoria, AZ; his son, Scott (Brenda) Ewing of North Platte; his daughter, Christy McKeeman of North Platte; stepdaughters Jennifer (Todd) Peters of Mullen and Julie (Rex) Micheel of Ainsworth; stepsons Lennie Anders of Harlan, Iowa, and Andy (Emily) Anders of Maywood. In addition, Buck is survived by his nephews, Don Jr. (Joanne) Ewing and Michael (Emily) Ewing; his niece, Kelly (Bill) Bente; and his cousin, Janeen (Jimmy) Palaccio. He was blessed with many grandchildren: Taylor McKeeman, Ryan McKeeman, Mariah (Branden) Bardell, Connor McKeeman, and Christopher McKeeman; Breyden Geyer, Brenner Ewing, Rachel (Will) Peers, Shane Anders, Colton Micheel, Bridgett Anders, Erica (Grant) Meyer, Brandon Peters, Jaxson, Oliver, Leo, Sunny Anders, and Roy Anders. He also leaves behind four great-grandchildren: Cooper Grant, Cooper Scott, Bennett, and Riggs.
Buck will be remembered for his kindness, adventurous spirit, and the deep love he showed to all those around him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him.
Condolences, messages of comfort for the family, and a live stream of the service will be at www.adamsswanson.com.
Funeral Services will be held at 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at the North Platte Berean Church with the Rev. John Stone and Pastor Willie Roberts officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Fort McPherson National Cemetery. Visitation will be on Monday, December 30, 2024, from 12:00–6:00 p.m. at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home, with family receiving friends from 4:00–6:00 p.m. Adams & Swanson Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.