Remembering Bucky Walters
Written by Paige Feikert
Remembering Bucky Walters
Written by Paige Feikert
Every person who walks the earth leaves an indelible mark as they pass. Passion and hobbies, talents and interests, all steer the course of our lives. Some of those are freely shared and enrich the lives of others. This is true for Ronald “Bucky” Walters and is felt in countless connections throughout our community.
Wichita icon and comedy legend Bucky Walters entertained Kansans for many decades during his lifetime. Walters was born in the spring of 1939 and passed away on September 10 of this year. He dedicated his life to bringing laughter and joy to all who encountered him. Known for his charming personality, he exhibited enthusiasm and love for Wichita and all who call our city home. As a student of Wichita State University, his love for The Shockers was ever-present and lifelong.
‘He was always performing.’
Walter’s career choices varied greatly, from the vibrance of beauty salons to the stage where he felt joyful entertaining others and encouraging their laughter. Working at various salons kept him close to others who always shared that time with him. He brought flair and his own sense of fun wherever he went.
Walters featured with photo of The Premiers
In addition to acting and entertaining on stage, Walters was also a talented musician. “Music was a profound part of his life, allowing him to connect with many throughout his journey. As the lead singer for the Premiers, he had the privilege of opening for the legendary acts such as Johnny Cash,” shared Carl Withers, a close friend of Walters.
With a quick wit and a natural bent toward comedy, Walters made it his life mission to bring laughter and smiles to his audiences, colleagues, family and friends. Several folks who knew him well throughout the years said things like “He was always performing,” and “Just to look at him made me laugh because I knew his next words were going to be funny.”
Since he often performed on stage and on talk-radio, Bucky was a popular Wichita personality and was widely recognized and often honored when he frequented local restaurants and other establishments.
‘Just to look at him made me laugh because I knew his next words were going to be funny.’
Known for his comedic timing and unique delivery, Bucky Walters demonstrated that, with some perspective, much of life, its problems and complaints, proved hilarious. He performed at the 2010 Gridiron at the Wichita Orpheum Theatre, his persona on full tilt in “What’s Wrong?” Walters’ skit which he wrote and performed in each year was a staple of the show where actors would call in to pretend to be well-known people and air their grievances. His responses were biting, thought provoking yet always hilarious.
Walters performing “What’s Wrong?” at the Orpheum Theatre
Walters is missed by many patrons of the arts in the community. His involvement with and devotion to the city ran deep. Though he has left this world, Walters’ spirit will live on in the stories of his life and comedy, memories of hearty laughter and love of life that he shared with everyone he encountered.
Bucky is survived by his brother Richard Walters and his nephew Miles Walters. In the hearts of his family and friends, he will be remembered for the joy he shared and the warmth he brought with him everywhere.
