Naples Resident Donald Buske Remembered

## Remembering Don Buske: A Naples Gem Gone Too Soon Naples, Florida, has always been a town built on community, a tapestry woven with the unique stories of its residents. It’s with a heavy heart that we gather today, our little corner of paradise a bit dimmer, as we remember one of our own, Donald Buske, who passed away on July 3rd, 2024. While obituaries often provide the bare bones of a life, we wanted to delve deeper, to paint a portrait of the man Don was, and the impact he had on our beloved Naples community. Don’s story, spanning from May 13th, 1931, to July 3rd, 2024, is intertwined with the narrative of Naples itself. While the specifics of his obituary might have been brief, his life was anything but. He lived during a time of significant transformation for our city, witnessing its evolution from a sleepy fishing village to the vibrant cultural hub it is today. Imagine, he saw Naples grow from a place where dirt roads were the norm to a city boasting world-class amenities and stunning beachfront properties. He likely remembered the days before the iconic Naples Pier was rebuilt after Hurricane Donna, a testament to our community’s resilience, a resilience Don undoubtedly embodied. We don’t have all the details of Don’s life, but we can imagine the stories he held. Did he frequent the bustling City Dock as a child, watching the fishing boats come in with their daily catch? Did he enjoy sunset strolls along the pristine sands of Lowdermilk Park with his family? Did he savor the fresh seafood at Kelly’s Fish House, a Naples institution for generations? Perhaps he was a regular at the Naples Farmers Market, exchanging friendly banter with local vendors while picking out the finest produce. These are just glimpses into the Naples Don might have known and loved. He likely witnessed the rise of Fifth Avenue South, from a collection of modest shops to the luxurious shopping destination it is today. He may have marveled at the development of Pelican Bay, a testament to harmonious coexistence between man and nature, a value that Naples residents hold dear. Perhaps he even enjoyed a round of golf at one of our many championship courses, basking in the glorious Florida sunshine. It’s likely Don witnessed the impact of major events on our community, like Hurricane Irma in 2017. He would have seen firsthand the unwavering spirit of Naples residents, coming together to support each other, rebuilding and recovering, stronger than ever. This spirit of community, of resilience, is deeply ingrained in the fabric of Naples, and we can only imagine how Don contributed to this vibrant tapestry. While the specific details of his professional life remain untold in the brief obituary, we can speculate on his contributions to Naples. Perhaps he was a teacher, shaping young minds at one of our excellent local schools like Naples High School or Gulf Coast High School. Maybe he was a doctor at NCH Baker Hospital Downtown or NCH North Naples Hospital, caring for our community members in their times of need. Or perhaps he was a local business owner, contributing to the economic vitality of our city. Whatever his profession, it’s likely Don touched the lives of countless Naples residents in his own unique way. More importantly than his professional life, we can imagine Don’s personal life enriching our community. Did he volunteer at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, dedicating his time to protecting our precious natural resources? Was he a member of the Naples Historical Society, preserving the rich history of our city? Perhaps he was an active participant in local community events, like the annual Naples National Art Festival or the Swamp Buggy Races, adding his own vibrant thread to the rich tapestry of Naples life. Even without knowing the specifics, we can feel Don’s presence woven into the fabric of our community. He was a witness to our growth, a participant in our triumphs, and a fellow traveler through the joys and challenges that life in Naples brings. He represents the generations that have shaped our city, building it into the unique and cherished place it is today. Don’s passing is a reminder of the preciousness of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with loved ones. It’s a call to connect with our community, to engage with our neighbors, and to celebrate the unique stories that make Naples so special. So, let’s remember Don Buske, not just for the dates etched in his obituary, but for the life he lived, the contributions he made, and the indelible mark he left on our beloved Naples. Let his memory inspire us to continue building the strong and vibrant community he was a part of, a community that values connection, resilience, and the unique spirit that defines Naples, Florida. Let us carry his spirit forward, ensuring that the Naples of tomorrow continues to be a place where stories like Don’s are cherished and celebrated.