Naples Resident Donald Buske Remembered

## Remembering Don Buske: A Naples Treasure Lost, a Legacy Found Naples, Florida, lost one of its own on July 3rd, 2024. Donald Buske, a man whose life was as vibrantly colored as a Gulf Coast sunset, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and a deep love for his adopted home. While an obituary might offer a glimpse into his life, it can’t fully capture the impact Don had on those around him, or the unique way he embodied the spirit of Naples. This post aims to paint a more complete picture of the man, his connections to our community, and the void his absence leaves behind. Born on May 13th, 1931, Don’s journey eventually brought him to Naples, a place he’d come to embrace wholeheartedly. While his obituary likely mentions the key dates and places, what it might not tell you is *why* Naples became home for Don. Was it the allure of our pristine beaches, the gentle sway of palm trees, the warm embrace of the community, or perhaps a combination of all three? Perhaps he fell in love with the vibrant arts scene, the delicious seafood at our local restaurants, or the thrill of spotting dolphins playing in the bay. Whatever drew him here, it’s clear that Naples wasn’t just a place he lived; it was a place he *loved*. For those of us lucky enough to have known Don, he was more than just a name in an obituary. He was a neighbor, a friend, perhaps a fellow volunteer at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, a familiar face at the Third Street South Farmers Market, or a fellow parishioner at St. Ann’s Catholic Church. He might have been the friendly face you saw every morning walking his dog along the beach, or the kind gentleman who always held the door open at Wynn’s Market. These are the details that bring a life to focus, the small, everyday interactions that weave the tapestry of our community. Imagine Don, a Naples resident for however many years (a detail likely found in his obituary), enjoying the simple pleasures our city offers. Picture him kayaking through the mangroves at Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, birdwatching at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, or teeing off at one of our world-class golf courses. Perhaps he was a regular at the Naples Botanical Garden, admiring the vibrant orchids and exotic plants. Maybe he enjoyed attending performances at the Sugden Community Theatre or browsing the art galleries along Fifth Avenue South. These are the experiences that shaped his life in Naples, the moments that made him a part of our community’s rich fabric. Don’s obituary likely lists his family members and survivors, but what it can’t convey is the depth of his relationships, the laughter shared, the stories told, the love that bound them together. Perhaps he was a devoted husband, a loving father, a doting grandfather. Did he share his passion for fishing with his grandkids at the Naples Pier? Did he and his wife enjoy romantic sunsets over the Gulf? These are the untold stories, the precious memories that paint a more vibrant picture of his life. Naples isn’t just a collection of beautiful beaches and upscale shops; it’s a community built on connections, on shared experiences, on the lives of people like Don Buske. His passing reminds us of the importance of cherishing those connections, of appreciating the small moments, of building a life filled with purpose and passion. It’s also a reminder of the fragility of life. While we mourn Don’s loss, we can also celebrate the life he lived, the contributions he made, and the indelible mark he left on our community. How did he give back to Naples? Was he involved in local charities? Did he volunteer his time at the local hospital or senior center? Did he mentor young people? These are the questions that help us understand his impact and inspire us to continue his legacy of kindness and generosity. Perhaps Don was a regular at local events like the Naples National Art Festival or the Stone Crab Festival. Maybe he was a passionate supporter of the Naples Zoo or the Everglades City Airboat Tours, always eager to share his love of the local wildlife with visitors. Perhaps he was a member of a local book club, a bowling league, or a gardening group, finding joy in connecting with others who shared his interests. Think about the local businesses Don frequented. Was he a regular at a particular coffee shop, always greeting the baristas with a smile? Did he have a favorite Italian restaurant on Fifth Avenue South? Did he enjoy browsing the shelves at the local bookstore? These seemingly small details are what make up the fabric of our community, the threads that connect us all. Don’s passing leaves a void in our community, but it also presents an opportunity. An opportunity to reflect on the values he embodied, the connections he fostered, and the legacy he leaves behind. It’s an opportunity to be more present in our own lives, to cherish the moments we share with loved ones, and to contribute to the vibrancy of our community in our own unique ways. In the days and weeks to come, let’s remember Don Buske not just for the dates in his obituary, but for the life he lived, the love he shared, and the impact he had on Naples, Florida. Let’s share our memories of him, tell stories that celebrate his life, and honor his legacy by continuing to build a strong and vibrant community, a community that he was proud to call home. If you have a story about Don, a memory you’d like to share, please leave a comment below. Let’s keep his spirit alive in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.