JULIAN LOGAN “BUCK” WHEAT, 78, of Louisville, passed away December 21, 2011.
He was Director of Horseman’s Relations long known as the “Mayor of the Backside” at Churchill Downs. Known simply as “Buck” to owners, trainers, jockeys and fans, Wheat was the son of trainer Logan Wheat and launched a formal association with Churchill Downs that would last most of his life when he took a job as an usher at the age of 16. He was honored several times for his work at Churchill Downs and never-ending charitable activities. In 2001, Dogwood Stable honored Wheat with its “Dogwood Dominion Award”, which annually recognizes “unsung heroes” of the horse industry. He was most recently honored with the “Dean Eagle Award” from Knights of Columbus Bishop Spalding Council No. 2761, which honors individuals annually for their contributions to the Thoroughbred racing industry.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Logan and Katherine M. Wheat; and sister, Margie Atherton.
He is survived by his children, Kevin Wheat (Kim), Dennis Wheat (Rhonda) and Denise Sohm, and their mother, Barbara Passifume; his grandchildren, Matthew, Baili, Heather, Cooper and Jessica; his great grandchild, Aiden; and his companion, Debbie Hunt.
Visitation will be 12-8pm Tuesday at Highlands Funeral Home, 3331 Taylorsville Road and Wednesday after 11am at Churchill Downs concluding with a service at 1pm.
Memorial contributions may be made to Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association, The Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation or Race Track Chaplaincy of America.

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