1960-2016
James Darrell Buzzell was only 56 years old when he passed away in Eufaula, Oklahoma, where he lived.
Darrell now joins his loving wife Charlene in Heaven. Charlene passed away in October 2012. They are now joined for all of eternity, God rest their souls.
To his mother, father, stepmother and brother he was always known as “Darrell.” To others, he was known as James, Jim or Buzz.
Darrell was born in San Diego, California, on Sept. 24, 1960, to James H. Buzzell and Florence E. (Leenknecht) Buzzell.
He grew up in San Diego and was educated in San Diego Catholic and public schools.
He also lived briefly with his paternal grandparents Lewis and Emma Buzzell in Minot, North Dakota.
Darrell lived for a year at the Home on Range for Boys in Medora, North Dakota, and went to school. He always remembered his time at the ranch and always had positive things to say about that experience and the Catholic priests and lay people who operated the ranch. As he often put it, it is where I learned the value of work and sharing as a young boy.
Darrell was also a proud United States Marine and tank driver. After his military service he became a long-haul trucker, driving for several long-haul trucking companies as both a private operator and company driver. He was also an over-the-road instructor for England Trucking for a period of time, teaching road warriors their technique to become long-haul truckers.
Darrell was a long-haul trucker for 26 years until his health would no longer allow him to drive.
Despite his health issues, he never gave up, always had a positive attitude and was outgoing and friendly to all. He is sorely missed by all who knew him.
Darrell was a caregiver for his wife Charlene when she fell ill with cancer, and continued to provide her aid and comfort in their home until she passed away. He was always a loving, devoted husband and soulmate to Charlene.
Darrell was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents. He is survived by his mother, father, stepmother and brother, Jon. He is also survived by his stepchildren Shannon (Cliff) Masset-Adcock, Robert Masset and Michael (Kristi) Masset, along with his step-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Memorial and interment are to be held in a private family service at the Shields family plot in Tooele, Utah on June 9, 2017, at 11 a.m.