Chad Edward Buckley, 38, of Crown Point, IN, but always a proud son of Hobart, IN, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, January 31, 2025. He was born on January 4, 1987, at Broadway Methodist in Merrillville, IN.

Chad is deeply loved and will be forever missed by his mother, Tammy Buckley (Brian Pedro—Brandon Pedro, Kirstyn Pedro); his father, Edward Buckley (Shannon Harden—Lucy Harden); his sister, Kendell Buckley (Joseph Ruwaldt); and most of all, his beloved son, who was his pride and joy, Cory Buckley (mother Anna Wisenbaugh, siblings Aviana McKervey, Tallin Patrick whom he loved dearly)  He also leaves behind his girlfriend, Sarah Brown (Cam Anderson), the beloved Elieff family and Gielow family, and an incredible number of close friends who became family.

On his mother’s side, he is survived by his Aunt Carol Cicchetto (Mike Cicchetto); cousins Elizabeth Sobczak (Anthony Sobczak) and their children, Vincent, Isalina, and Alessia Sobczak; Uncle Mike Peete (Lisa Peete) and their children, Anthony Peete and Angela Camp; and Uncle Joe Peete (Carolina Peete) and their children, Bradley and Joe Joe Peete. 

On his father’s side, he is survived by his Aunt Lavon Parker and cousins Sean Parker and Shelby Mergenthaler; Aunt Tina (Bryan) Britton and cousins Tayler (Cory) Allison and their children, Acen, Eila, and Ozzy, and Zachary (Emma) Britton; and Uncle Brian Chadwick (Sylvania Chadwick). 

Chad also leaves behind Jimmy and Johnny Salinas, who were not only great friends but also incredible role models who stood by his side, supporting him through life. Their friendship and guidance meant the world to him.

Chad is reunited in heaven with his brother, Cory Buckley; his best friends, Josh Rogers, Edwin Dallas, Jimmy (Jimbo) Rutherford, Joshua Owen, and Kevin Lee Katona Jr.; his grandmothers, Jenny Peete, Martha Burnes, and Mary Gielow (Judie Buckley, Steve Longstreet); his grandfather, George Peete; his great-grandmother, Ethel Miller; his Aunt Kathleen Buckley; his Uncle Greg Parker; and his Aunts Diana Grubb and Marlene Reberg.

Chad was charismatic, loyal, and the life of the party. He had a sharp mind, a kind heart, and an unmatched ability to make people laugh. Beneath his strong, masculine exterior, Chad was incredibly sensitive and cared deeply about his family, friends, and even strangers. He was always willing to lend a hand, offer advice, or make sure everyone around him was taken care of. His generosity knew no bounds—whether treating someone to a great experience or simply showing up when they needed him most.

The wrestling community was a cornerstone of Chad’s life. He grew up playing soccer and football, but wrestling was the Buckley family sport. He loved coaching Cory at his tournaments alongside his father, Ed Buckley (Papa Buck), creating memories that meant the world to him. Wrestling was more than just a sport to Chad—it was a bond, a family, and a community like no other.

Chad earned a Bachelor of Science in Management with majors in Accounting and Finance from Purdue University Calumet. He had so many dreams and ideas about how to build a great life for himself and his family, always thinking of ways to create a bright future, especially for his son, Cory.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, March 2, 2025 at Gino’s Banquet in Hobart, Indiana from 12:00 noon until 6:00 p.m. with a buffet lunch to begin at 12:30 p.m. (continuing until food runs out) and with a cash bar available.

Cocktail Attire is Encouraged– Chad loved to dress up and support his people at their events.  

Please RSVP by using our EVENT LINK if you plan on attending so we can do our best to accommodate everyone. http:// www.eventective.com/us/ celebratethelifeofchadbuckley

In lieu of flowers, monetary donations can be made to assist with services and support Cory’s future through the GoFundMe page set up in Chad’s honor.