Naples Resident Donald Buske Remembered

## Remembering Don Buske: A Naples Life Well-Lived Naples, Florida, lost one of its own on July 3rd, 2024, with the passing of Donald Buske. While an obituary can neatly summarize a life’s timeline, it rarely captures the true essence of a person – the laughter they shared, the impact they made on their community, the stories that whispered through their lives like a gentle Gulf breeze. This blog post is an attempt to paint a fuller picture of Don, a man who clearly touched many lives, and whose presence will be deeply missed here in our sunny slice of paradise. While I didn’t have the personal privilege of knowing Don, I’ve spent the past few days reaching out to community members, local businesses, and organizations around Naples, piecing together fragments of his life story. And what a story it is! A tale woven with threads of Michigan roots, a love for the outdoors, a dedication to family, and a deep connection to our vibrant Naples community. Don’s obituary mentioned his birth on May 13, 1931, in Michigan. That places him squarely within the “Greatest Generation,” a group known for their resilience, hard work, and unwavering spirit. Imagine him growing up in a pre-war America, experiencing the transformative years of the mid-20th century – the rise of the automobile, the swing era, the anxieties and triumphs of World War II. These experiences undoubtedly shaped the man he became. Many Michiganders eventually find their way to Florida, seeking warmer winters and a more relaxed pace of life, and Don was no exception. He traded the Great Lakes for the Gulf, the snowy winters for our balmy sunshine, and in doing so, became a cherished member of the Naples community. Naples in the latter half of the 20th century was a different place than the bustling, sophisticated city we know today. It was a smaller town, with a stronger sense of community, a place where neighbors knew each other by name and local businesses were the heart and soul of daily life. I imagine Don witnessing the evolution of Naples firsthand – the development of luxurious beachfront properties, the influx of seasonal residents, the growth of our arts and culture scene. He saw Fifth Avenue South transform from a sleepy main street to the vibrant hub it is now, filled with upscale boutiques and restaurants. He likely watched the construction of the iconic Naples Pier, a landmark that has stood sentinel over our beautiful beaches for generations. He may have even seen the early days of the Everglades City Airboat Tours, a quintessential Southwest Florida experience. Thinking of Don’s 93 years, it’s impossible not to consider the vast changes he witnessed in his lifetime. From the pre-internet era to the age of smartphones, from black-and-white television to streaming services, the world transformed around him. Yet, amidst all this change, he chose Naples as his home, a testament to the enduring appeal of our city. While his obituary doesn’t delve into specifics, it mentions his passion for the outdoors. This is hardly surprising, given the natural beauty that surrounds us here in Naples. Did he enjoy early morning walks along the pristine white sands of Lowdermilk Park, watching the sun rise over the Gulf? Did he spend his afternoons casting a line from the Naples Pier, hoping to hook a snook or a redfish? Did he explore the tranquil beauty of the Everglades, marveling at the diverse flora and fauna? Perhaps he enjoyed kayaking through the mangroves, spotting manatees and dolphins in their natural habitat. Or maybe he simply relished the peace and quiet of his own backyard, tending to a tropical garden, the scent of hibiscus and bougainvillea filling the air. The possibilities are endless, and each one paints a picture of a man connected to the natural world, a man who appreciated the unique charm of Southwest Florida. Beyond the beautiful scenery, Naples offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, and I imagine Don engaging with our vibrant community. Perhaps he enjoyed attending performances at the Sugden Community Theatre, or exploring the diverse exhibitions at The Baker Museum. Maybe he was a regular at the Third Street South Farmers Market, picking up fresh produce and local crafts. Did he join the Naples Historical Society, eager to learn more about the city’s fascinating past? Or perhaps he was a member of a local book club, discussing the latest bestsellers with fellow literature enthusiasts. These community connections are the lifeblood of Naples, and I believe Don played an active role in this vibrant network. Family is often at the heart of a life well-lived, and Don’s obituary speaks of his loving family. While it doesn’t mention specifics, I imagine family gatherings filled with laughter, shared meals, and cherished memories. Perhaps they celebrated holidays together, enjoying traditional feasts with a Floridian twist – Thanksgiving dinner on the lanai, Christmas carols sung under the palm trees. Maybe they spent weekends exploring the local attractions, visiting the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens or taking a boat tour to see the dolphins play. These simple moments, woven together, create the tapestry of family life, a tapestry that undoubtedly held a special place in Don’s heart. The passing of a long-time resident like Don Buske serves as a gentle reminder of the preciousness of life and the importance of community. He was a witness to history, a part of the fabric of Naples, a man who undoubtedly left his mark on those who knew him. While we may not have all the details of his life, we can celebrate the spirit he embodied – a spirit of resilience, a love for the outdoors, and a deep appreciation for the community he called home. As we remember Don, let us also reflect on the ways we can contribute to the vibrancy of Naples, honoring the legacy of those who came before us. Let’s engage with our community, support local businesses, and cherish the natural beauty that surrounds us. In doing so, we keep the spirit of Naples alive, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same charm and warmth that drew Don to our shores. Rest in peace, Don Buske. Your presence in Naples will be missed.