Gary Buffington

Gary Lee Roy Buffington, 79, of Lawrence, Kan., passed away   Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026.
Gary was born Dec.  6, 1946, the son of Donald and Irene (Selby) Buffington, in Custer, S.D., where he spent his childhood, attended Custer schools, and graduated from Custer High School. 
On Aug. 3, 1965, he married the love of his life, Kathleen Treloar, in Hot Springs, S.D.
Despite his humble beginnings, Gary possessed a relentless drive and an unwavering commitment to build a better life for those he loved. He provided fully for his family, fulfilling his lifelong vow that his children would never know the hardships he once faced.
While working at the Homestake Gold Mine in Lead, S.D., and with his wife’s support and encouragement, Gary earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Black Hills State University. This was a stepping stone to a master’s degree from the University of South Dakota, as well as certifications in law enforcement, mining and tunneling and safety. He was close to completing his doctoral degree, with only the final oral exam remaining.
Over his lifetime, Gary’s accomplishments included work as a mining contractor, Pennington County deputy sheriff, criminal investigator and SWAT team member, mine inspector for MSHA, and safety manager at Black & Veatch and Parsons Dillingham engineering firms. These roles prepared him to become a highly respected expert witness in safety for mining, tunneling and construction. He was a member of the Moose Lodge and the American Society of Safety Engineers.
He is survived by his children, Katherine Ives (Allan Truskauskas), Lowell Buffington, and Gary Buffington Jr. (Jon Neely); his sister, Beverly Kiesling (Ed); his grandchildren, Vanessa Eiker (James), Audrey Caro Ives (Chris), Gage Buffington (Caroline) and Benjamin Buffington (Victoria Fast); and his great-grandchildren, Nolan Eiker, Makenna Eiker, Raegan Eiker, Lana Caro, Landon Caro, Lucas Caro, Ezra Couch and Elliot Couch.
He was preceded in death by his father and mother; his brothers, Mick and Bob; an infant brother; his sister, Bettie Stiles; his son, James Lowell Buffington; and his wife, Kathleen (Treloar) Buffington.
A service for Gary will be held Sept. 19 at 10:30 a.m. at Custer Lutheran Fellowship, 12622 Hwy. 16A, followed by a graveside service for Gary and Kathy at the Custer Cemetery. Light refreshments and food will be served at the church after the graveside service. We look forward to seeing you.
Memorial contributions in Gary’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Humane Society of the Black Hills.