First published in the April 7 print issue of the Outlook Valley Sun.
Local residents Chris and Shelley Buck will be the program speakers for the upcoming annual La Cañada Les Tupper Community Service Awards presentation on April 25 at 7 p.m. at Flintridge Prep’s Norris Auditorium.
The free event is open to the public and will recognize three individuals, two students and one organization for their volunteer work in the community.
Chris Buck is a native of Wichita, Kansas, and his family eventually settled in Orange County. Shelley Buck is originally from Chicago and moved here to pursue her life’s dream of working for Disney. Their paths crossed at Disney Studios’ animation department when they were in their 20s. Shelley Buck’s career took her into live action feature films as a sound editor and assistant director in animation, while Chris Buck carved out a path as a supervising animator and eventually director that landed him in Oscar’s spotlight for the animated movie, “Frozen.”
The Bucks moved to LCF for the highly acclaimed schools with their three children Ryder, 8, Woody, 5, and Reed, 1. The boys all graduated from LCHS having taken full advantage of the outstanding theater, choir and water polo programs.
Shelley and Chris Buck were immediately introduced to the many opportunities to volunteer within the community. While Shelley Buck used her artistry to beautify the campuses with murals, and to create event designs for the LCF Educational Foundation’s galas, Chris Buck enlisted Disney to sponsor a “Tarzan” premier and a “Frozen” sing-along screening at Memorial Park during Fiesta Days.
When the tragic loss of their oldest son Ryder drove the Bucks to their knees, the people of La Cañada rallied around and helped the family get back on their feet. Shelley Buck has since published a book about Ryder’s life and shining spirit, “Leave Your Light On.”
Both are grateful for the opportunities to give back to a town that has so enriched and supported their lives.
