Bucky Levi Emans

Bucky Levi Emans left this Earth on February 14, 2025, at the young age of 47. He was born June 1, 1977, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Dayton, Ohio, to Russell J. “Buck” & DeeAnn C. (Johnston) Emans, who survive him in Marion, Ohio. Bucky is also survived by his loving wife Rachel (Hartley) Emans and son Aaron Levi Emans. Additional survivors include: Sister Chelsea Emans (Brad Koinis) and their children Elowyn & Booker Koinis of Gahanna, Ohio; Maternal Grandmother Contance Johnston of Fairborn, Ohio; Father-in-law, Larry Hartley of Hartsell, Colorado; Mother-in law, Kerry Hartley of Marion, Ohio; Brother-in-law Brandon (Sarah) Hartley and their daughter Athena of Gahanna, Ohio. He is also survived by several aunts, uncles & cousins. Bucky is preceded in death by: Paternal Grandparents, Charles and Maxine Emans & Maternal Grandfather Charles Johnston.

Bucky always lived life with joy and determination. After being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 1997 Bucky adopted “Rule #5” (Never Give Up) as his life mantra. Every health battle was faced with no other option but to fight to win! On December 19th 1998 Bucky received an Allogenic Bone Marrow Transplant, from a non-related donor in Minnesota. Bucky was able to meet his donor in 1999. His thankless gift saved Bucky’s life and allowed Bucky to live on to become a college graduate, husband, father, uncle, and lifelong friend to many along his journey. Bucky held the esteemed designation of being the longest living survivor of this type of transplant, performed at the OSU James Cancer Hospital.

Bucky, being an avid sports fan and accomplished golfer, began his sporting career with Marion Baseball for Youth and Heart of Ohio Jr. Golf Association. At a young age, Bucky attended many Muirfield Tournaments with Grandpa Johnston. On one visit, Bucky was able to walk the course with player, Tom Lehman. Bucky met Mr. Lehman once again as a playing partner on a visit to Minnesota, years later. Bucky’s paternal grandfather, Grandpa Emans, encouraged, coached, and supported Bucky’s golf career, traveling to matches and volunteering with the HOJGA youth. Golfing in tournaments, and along with his Uncle Don in Minnesota, perfected Bucky’s talent and he earned his first hole-in-one at 12 years old at Mar-O-Del golf course, in Marion, Ohio, in July 1989. 

Academics were equally important to Bucky. He was a talented student throughout his primary school years with many teachers fondly remembering him as their “favorite student.” Bucky earned a full scholarship for Golf and Academics to Mercer University, in Macon, GA. The untimely medical diagnosis, cut his time at Mercer short, as he returned to Ohio to initiate medical treatment. In true Bucky fashion, he retained life-long friendships from Mercer and many stood with in as he married his true love in 2002.

Bucky met a beautiful girl in 1997, on one of his breaks from college. It did not take long for the two to become one. In the true definition of the word “soul mate” the story of Bucky and Rachel was born. Bucky referred to Rachel as his “Angel” and she lived up to the challenge. Rachel was with Bucky throughout his Bone Marrow Transplant, traveling from college on weekends to spend time with Bucky until he was discharged. Once his health improved, he joined Rachel at Bowling Green University. Bucky graduated Suma Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Management. Following Rachel’s Master degree graduation, Bucky set the wheels in motion for a surprise proposal. He felt it is was very important to include both families for this special occasion. Gathering at their college apartment, Bucky pronounced his love for Rachel with immediate family at their side. Married July 20, 2002, in an emotional filled ceremony, Bucky and Rachel’s life was full of challenges, but never short of love. Rachel was an immaculate care giver and life partner to Bucky in every way. Bucky’s parents made it their mission to support Bucky and assisted Rachel in every way possible. Bucky had the best support system imaginable. His medical care team were special guests at their wedding!

Out of all his alcaldes and achievements, Bucky’s greatest joy was his family. Aaron Levi Emans joined the world, six weeks early, on April 24, 2006. Fatherhood for Bucky was the best “job” in the world! He was Aaron’s primary caregiver while Rachel pursued her career in elementary education. Bucky and Aaron spent most of their time together sharing their love of music, Boy Scouts, and learning. Aaron spent many years in Boy Scouts and earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Aaron included Bucky in his school-work every evening, continuing Bucky’s love of learning. They enjoyed working through complex equations and robust conversations. Favorite activities included going to concerts as a family, crossing many genres.

This past summer, Bucky was able to join the family for a two-week trip to Minnesota.

Defining Bucky and his miraculous life is impossible to sum up in a few words. The one constant was his kind heart, joy of learning and outgoing personality. His unwavering commitment to fight a battle others would have surrendered long, long ago. We close this chapter on his life, knowing that Bucky, truly, Never Gave Up!

Donations can be made to OSU James Cancer Hospital.