H.J. Shaver Obituary

Buck Shaver left this life on April 24th, 2009, to begin his new eternal life in heaven. He was surrounded by his loving wife of 64 years, his two sons, and his daughter-in-law. Buck is survived by his wife Margaret, his two sons Bob (Cindy) and Weldon (Dee), and his four grandchildren Darlene, Jason, Kristi, and Alexis. He loved his family very much and was always willing to share his time and his love with them. Buck was a member of Grace Presbyterian Church where he served faithfully for over 35 years. Buck was born in Colorado Springs to Walter and Grace Shaver in 1926. He was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother Vern Shaver. Buck grew up in Colorado Springs and graduated from Falcon High School where he met the love of his life, Margaret. They were married on April 7th, 1945 shortly before he left to serve his country in World War II. Upon returning to Colorado Springs, he worked as a mechanic and eventually opened his own garage with his friend Grier Manning. Buck and Grier not only ran a successful business but they also shared a passion for auto racing. They formed a very successful team, with Grier as the driver, and Buck as the crew chief. They competed in the Rocky Mountain Midget Racing Association at tracks in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Denver and many other tracks in the western United States. Buck also worked at Perkins Motor Company for 25 years in the service department. He had many loyal customers who “would only talk to Buck because he is the only guy who can fix my car.� His love for automobiles led him to the Veteran Motor Car Club of America (VMCCA) where he served as a board member and president. He loved to restore vintage automobiles and participate in local and national tours with the VMCCA. He won many awards for his own restored cars such as his 1940 Buick Century, his 1932 Chevrolet Roadster, and his 1933 Chevrolet Truck. He always helped others in the club and will be missed by all of his VMCCA family. A Memorial Service to celebrate Buck’s life is planned for 4:00-6:00 pm on Friday, May 1st, at Grace Presbyterian Church, 2511 North Logan Ave. in Colorado Springs. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at The University of Colorado Burn/Trauma ICU. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent to University of Colorado Hospital Burn/Trauma Unit, PO Box 6510, Aurora, CO 80045.