Remembering Donald Buske, Naples Resident

## Remembering Don Buske: A Naples Legend Lost, a Legacy Found Naples, Florida, lost a true gem on July 3rd, 2024, with the passing of Donald Buske. While the obituary you might have seen (linked above) gives the bare bones of his life – born May 13th, 1931, and passed away this past July – it barely scratches the surface of the man he was and the impact he had on our community. I’d like to take a moment, not just to remember him, but to truly celebrate the life of Don Buske, a man who embodied the spirit of Naples. I remember meeting Don… well, it’s hard to say exactly *when* I met Don. It feels like he was always just *around* Naples. He seemed to be everywhere, involved in everything. Whether it was at a local charity event, cheering on the Naples High School Golden Eagles, or simply enjoying a sunset at the pier, Don’s presence was a constant, a comforting thread in the vibrant tapestry of our town. He wasn’t just *in* Naples; he *was* Naples, in a way. He represented that unique blend of warmth, generosity, and community spirit that makes this place so special. So, who was Don Buske, beyond the dates etched in stone? He was a storyteller, a jokester, a friend, a mentor, and a pillar of the Naples community. He had a knack for making everyone feel seen and valued, whether you were a lifelong resident or a newcomer just discovering the magic of Southwest Florida. He remembered names, details, and stories, weaving them together into a rich narrative of our shared experiences. Speaking of stories, Don had a million of them. He could hold court for hours, regaling anyone within earshot with tales of old Naples, of the days when the area was a sleepy fishing village, long before the high-rises and bustling Fifth Avenue South. He’d talk about the changes he witnessed, the growth and development, always with a twinkle in his eye and a deep appreciation for the evolution of our beloved town. He never romanticized the “good old days”; instead, he embraced the present while cherishing the memories of the past. Don’s connection to Naples ran deep. He wasn’t just a resident; he was an active participant in shaping its character. He believed in giving back and was involved in countless local organizations, from the Conservancy of Southwest Florida (protecting our precious natural resources, something Don was incredibly passionate about) to the Greater Naples YMCA (where he could often be found encouraging youngsters and sharing his infectious enthusiasm for life). He wasn’t just writing checks; he was rolling up his sleeves and getting involved, dedicating his time and energy to causes he believed in. He understood the importance of preserving the natural beauty that draws so many to Naples. He’d often talk about the importance of protecting our mangroves, our beaches, and our waterways, reminding us that these treasures are not just beautiful scenery, but vital components of our ecosystem and our community’s identity. Don’s dedication to Naples extended beyond environmental causes. He was a fierce advocate for education, supporting local schools and scholarship programs. He believed in investing in the future, in empowering young people to reach their full potential. He often said, “The children are our future,” and he lived by those words, mentoring countless young people and inspiring them to make a difference in their own communities. Beyond his community involvement, Don was a devoted family man. While I won’t delve into specific details out of respect for his family’s privacy, I can say that he was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. His family was his anchor, his source of strength and joy. He cherished every moment spent with them, whether it was a simple family dinner, a day at the beach, or a holiday gathering. His love for his family was evident in everything he did. Don Buske’s legacy is not one of grand gestures or monumental achievements, but rather a tapestry woven from countless small acts of kindness, generosity, and community spirit. He was the kind of person who would stop to help a stranger change a flat tire, offer a listening ear to someone in need, or simply share a smile and a friendly word. He believed in the power of human connection, in the importance of building strong communities, and he lived his life accordingly. So, as we mourn the loss of Don Buske, let us also celebrate the incredible life he lived. Let us remember his stories, his laughter, and his unwavering dedication to Naples. Let us honor his legacy by continuing his work, by giving back to our community, by cherishing our natural environment, and by treating each other with kindness and respect. Don may be gone, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the fabric of our community. He was a true Naples original, and he will be deeply missed. If you have a memory of Don you’d like to share, please feel free to leave a comment below. Let’s keep his memory alive by sharing our stories and celebrating the life of a man who truly made a difference.