Born in Durrheim, Grand Duchy of Baden, Germany, Buck immigrated to the United States in 1852 with his parents, who settled in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Turning to the law as career, Buck studied further, was admitted to the bar in 1867, and commenced practice in New Orleans, Louisiana.

He served as member of the school board of New Orleans for many years and was city attorney from 1880 to 1884.

He served as member of the supreme court board of examiners for admission to the bar 1898-1900.

Buck died in New Orleans, Louisiana, January 19, 1918, and was interred in the Metairie Cemetery.