Chauncey “Buck” Hewes

Born July 6, 1940 – Paxico, Kansas

Departed September 14, 2025 – Surrounded by Family

Chauncey Frank Hewes, known to all as “Buck” and lovingly called “Gramps” by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 14th, surrounded by those who loved him most.

Buck’s life was marked by devotion—to his late wife, Kate Hewes, to his family, and to the land and cattle he cared for with pride.

After completing eighth grade, Buck moved to the Eskridge area and graduated from Eskridge High School in 1959. It was there he met Alta Kay “Kate” Romig, the love of his life. They married shortly after graduation and built a life rooted in hard work, love, and community.

Buck’s early career included time at the Lockhart Ranch and Maple Hill Grain Elevator before he founded Hewes Construction. He began by building barns, then transitioned to fire restoration work, and eventually to homebuilding.

He built more than barns and homes—he built confidence in others. Buck had a gift for teaching: he would show you once, then let you try it yourself. Whether you got it right or stumbled, he was always there with encouragement. His motto was simple: “Just start. You are smart. You will figure it out.”

Buck’s legacy lives on through his children: Kelly Schuetz, Mike Hewes (with Angie Hewes), and Lorrie Hewes (with Steve Campbell); his sister Shelia “Hewes” Johnston; brothers Bobby, Dean, and Gene Hewes; and sister-in-law Karol Romig.

He was a proud grandfather to Marcus Mulanax, Mallory Schuetz, Michael John Hewes, Jessica Hewes, J. Mitchell Schuetz, and Lexi Sage—and a great-grandfather to Mason Mulanax, Derek Hewes, Milo Hewes, Kinsley Mulanax, and Tessa Kay Mulanax.

Buck was preceded in death by his beloved wife Kate; his parents, Walter and Laura Hewes; his in-laws, Clifford and Vera Romig; his son-in-law, John Schuetz; grandson Brandon Schuetz; and great-grandsons Reed and Myles Mulanax.

Buck leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and quiet wisdom. His presence will be felt in every pasture, every crop, and every moment we remember his steady hand and soft heart.

A graveside service will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, September 20 at the Eskridge Cemetery in Eskridge, KS.

A luncheon following the burial will be held at Hilda’s Diner, 113 South Main Street, Eskridge, KS.