Norbert J. Buskey of Fayetteville, NY passed away Wednesday, October 23, 2013, at his home. Norm was born in Springville, NY on May 23, 1934 to Frank and Josephine Buskey who predeceased him in 1968 and 1993 respectively. His sister, Mary Buskey of Springville, NY in 2012 also predeceases him.
Norm will forever be remembered for his love of music. He received his Bachelors and Masters Degrees from Ithaca College in Music Education and completed 4 years towards his Doctorate of Musical Arts at Eastman School of Music where he also earned his Performance Certificate in Saxophone. He went on to work as a music educator and conductor at Clarence Central High School, North Colonie Central School District, Syracuse University and retired in 1999 after 18 years in the Fayetteville-Manlius Central School District.
As a music educator he worked tirelessly to achieve the highest standards for his students in musical performance. He was a guest conductor, adjudicator and clinician in rehearsal technique for wind ensemble/ concert band. His bands earned highest ratings for performance in state and national competitions. As an active member of the Fayetteville United Methodist Church, Norm served on various committees and was president of the Trustees of the Church for many years. He was instrumental in the planning and improvements of the church facilities.
For many years Norm could be seen running the streets of Fayetteville early in the morning training for one of eight marathons or other races that he participated in. Being in good physical shape was important to him throughout his life.
In retirement, Norm continued to teach private music lessons. He was an avid NY Yankees and Notre Dame football fan. He enjoyed working outside in the garden and other projects around the house. Traveling internationally with a group of friends for 16 years was special for him. Family was an important part of Norm’s life. He cared and loved each member of his family very much. In all aspects of his life, Norm was strong, courageous and positive.
Norm is survived by his wife Judy (Witzig) Buskey of almost 47 years, his daughters Traci (Robb) Micek of Buffalo Grove, Illinois and Shari Buskey of Fayetteville, New York, three grandchildren, Ryan, Lauren and Brooke Micek, his brother Harry Buskey and sister Phyllis Snyder, both of Springville, NY.
Calling hours will be on Friday, November 8, 2013 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm at the Fayetteville United Methodist Church and a Memorial Service Celebrating the life of Norm will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2013 at 1pm also at the Church, 601 East Genesee Street, Fayetteville, NY 13066.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Foundation for Upstate, memo Regional Oncology Center, 750 East Adams Street, CAB Room 326, Syracuse, NY 13210 or the Fayetteville United Methodist Church, 601 East Genesee Street, Fayetteville, NY 13066 or to the “Norbert J. Buskey Music Education Scholarship”, Fayetteville United Methodist Church (address above).
1 comment:
Norm was an amazingly energetic and positive teacher...almost a force of nature! I was in his first band in CCHS, in the '62 academic year. I really liked the man, and he had a strong positive effect on me and on my circle of best band-nerd friends. After a hiatus of several years I picked up the trumpet and played for 25 years more. I owe him a lot.
Thanks for posting this, Becky, and for keeping the website going.
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