Francis “Bucky” Kavanagh may be gone, but he certainly isn’t forgotten.

Hundreds of people attended a memorial service this past Friday to honor the longtime Panther Valley Golf Club’s Assistant Pro, who passed away on Nov. 10.

Friends, associates, and former employees, from near and far, gathered at the Allamuchy country club to share stories, drink a toast (several, in fact), and pay tribute to Bucky.

Over the years, Bucky became a part of each family at PVGCC – always celebrating and supporting everyone in their time of need. His kind heart and warmhearted nature will be missed by all that knew him.

Bucky lived the majority of his live within the gates of Panther Valley. He grew up there – attending Allamuchy School and Hackettstown High School before attending Rider College – and continued to live there through his adult life. 

His involvement at PVGCC began at the beginning of the club’s history as his family were some of the original Members of Panther Valley Golf & Country Club, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

In 1977 Bucky won the club championship. Shortly after that Bucky began his 41 year career in the Golf Shop as the Assistant Golf Professional.

Season after season, Bucky would eagerly await the early signs of spring – the first indicator that golf season – and the return of the Members at PVGCC – was just around the corner. His friendly smiling face was among the first and most recognizable at the club. Perhaps his most distinct attribute was his ability to remember the name, face, and preference of each golfer at PVGCC over the past 41 years. To this day, former Members and guests who have played the course reminisce about his welcoming and accommodating nature.

During his time, Bucky was one of the most dedicated Members of the PVGCC family – going above and beyond whenever the situation warranted. Bucky was also one of the most knowledgeable people about not only PVGCC but also Allamuchy Township as a whole – often educating those around him.

Bucky is predeceased by his father Desmond, his mother Jean and his sister Missy.