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 notice might offer the bare facts, it rarely captures the true essence of a life, the impact a person has on their community, the memories woven into the local fabric. This blog post aims to do just that, to paint a fuller picture of Don, a man who undoubtedly touched many lives during his time in our beautiful corner of Southwest Florida. While I don’t personally know all the intricate details of Don’s life – I’m hoping this post will encourage those who did to share their stories – I can speak to the spirit of Naples and how someone like Don, born in 1931, likely became a part of its vibrant history. Don’s life spanned an incredible period of change, both nationally and here in Naples. He witnessed the transformation of this sleepy fishing village into the bustling, sophisticated paradise we know today. Imagine him arriving in Naples, perhaps decades ago, when the population was a fraction of what it is now. Picture him navigating the then-unpaved roads, maybe even catching a glimpse of the early days of development along the pristine Gulf coast. He saw the rise of iconic landmarks like the Naples Pier, witnessed the influx of seasonal residents, and experienced firsthand the evolution of our unique local culture. For someone born in 1931, living in Naples, Florida, offered a unique perspective on the American dream. The post-war boom, the rise of the middle class, the burgeoning tourism industry – these were all forces that shaped not only the nation but also the local landscape of Southwest Florida. Don’s generation built the foundation for the Naples we cherish today. They were the pioneers, the entrepreneurs, the community builders who saw the potential of this sun-kissed paradise. It’s fascinating to consider what drew Don to Naples. Was it the lure of the Gulf, the promise of sunshine and warm winters? Was it the entrepreneurial spirit that pulsed through the growing town? Or perhaps he was seeking a slower pace of life, a sense of community that smaller towns often offer. Whatever his reasons, Don became a part of Naples, and Naples, in turn, became a part of him. Think about what daily life might have been like for Don in Naples. Morning walks along the beach, watching the sunrise paint the sky with vibrant hues. Afternoon lunches at local restaurants, swapping stories with fellow Neapolitans. Evenings spent enjoying the vibrant arts scene, attending concerts or plays at the Sugden Community Theatre, or perhaps simply relaxing at home with a good book and the gentle Gulf breeze wafting through the open windows. He might have witnessed the evolution of Fifth Avenue South from a sleepy main street to the vibrant hub of high-end shops and restaurants it is today. He might have watched the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra grow from a small ensemble to a world-renowned symphony. He might have marvelled at the development of luxurious golf communities, transforming the landscape and attracting visitors from around the globe. Don’s generation witnessed the challenges of growth too. The delicate balance between preserving the natural beauty of the area and accommodating the influx of new residents and businesses is a constant conversation in Naples. He likely saw firsthand the debates about development, the efforts to protect our precious mangroves and waterways, and the ongoing struggle to maintain that unique “Old Naples” charm amidst the rapid pace of change. What kind of person was Don? Was he a fisherman casting his line off the Naples Pier, hoping for a snook or tarpon? Was he a golfer perfecting his swing at one of the many championship courses that dot the landscape? Was he a volunteer dedicating his time to local charities, contributing to the spirit of generosity that permeates Naples? Was he a passionate advocate for local causes, attending city council meetings and voicing his opinions on issues that mattered to him? Perhaps he was a quiet observer, content to enjoy the simple pleasures of life in Naples. A morning stroll through Cambier Park, a leisurely bike ride along the Gordon River Greenway, a quiet evening spent watching the sunset from his lanai. Even in its quiet moments, Naples offers a rich tapestry of experiences, and Don, like so many others, undoubtedly found his own unique rhythm within this vibrant community. This post is an invitation. An invitation to remember Don Buske, to share stories about him, to celebrate his life and the impact he had on our community. If you knew Don, please share your memories in the comments below. What made him unique? What will you remember most about him? Let’s create a collective portrait of a life well-lived, a testament to the enduring spirit of Naples, Florida. Did he frequent local haunts like Tommy Bahama or The Dock at Crayton Cove? Did he have a favorite spot to watch the sunset? What were his passions? His hobbies? Sharing these details, however small they may seem, helps to paint a more complete picture of Don’s life and his connection to Naples. It’s these personal anecdotes, these small details, that truly bring a life story to life. They remind us that history isn’t just about dates and events, it’s about the people who lived through them, the people who shaped their communities, the people who left their mark, however subtle, on the world around them. Don Buske was one of those people, a part of the fabric of Naples, Florida, and his story, like all our stories, deserves to be remembered.