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Linda Buettner Obituary
Linda Lee Buettner of Greensboro, NC, age 56, died on April 26, 2012 with her loving lifelong partner, Sue, at her side. Lin was born in Wolcott, NY and lived many years in Ithaca, NY and Port Charlotte, Fl before moving to North Carolina. Lin is survived by her dear soul mate - who loved and cared for her in her most difficult times - Sue Fitzsimmons; her beloved dog Bandi; her daughter Amber Lasovoy; stepdaughter Megan Macario; stepson Brock Fitzsimmons; grandchildren Jaymes and Sierra; sister Susan Brazo and many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. She was preceded in death by her parents, Cecil and Carrie Buettner, and her stepdaughter Jana Sheets. She was a superb athlete, competing in triathlons and was on the US Woman's Soccer team. Coaching soccer at Ithaca College she received not only Coach of the Year but was recently inducted into their Hall of Fame. Linda received her undergraduate degree at Cortland State University, her masters at Bowling Green University in Ohio, and her doctorate in Gerontology and Recreational Therapy from Penn State University. Upon her death she was a professor in the department of Community and Recreational Therapy at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and was an adjunct at Binghamton University, and the University of Stavanger in Stavanger, Norway. Her past work history included Ithaca College and Binghamton University in NY and Florida Gulf Coast University. Lin was world renown for her research of therapeutic programs for older adults with secondary symptoms of dementia, depression, delirium, and apathy and evaluating non-pharmacological interventions. Lin was the editor of the American Journal of Recreation Therapy and the Activities Directors Quarterly along with being on numerous editorial boards. At Binghamton University she was the director of the Caswell Alzheimer's Disease Assistance Center and at Florida Gulf Coast University she was the Director of the Center for Positive Aging. Lin received research grant funding from several organizations including the Alzheimer's Association, Rosalyn Carter Caregiver Foundation, Retirement Research Foundation, New York State Dementia grants, Florida Innovative programming grants, and the National Institute on Aging. She authored many books and hundreds of publications. An inspirational speaker she was able to excite and electrify audiences. As a teacher she mentored and inspired her students. She received hundreds of awards, including the Barry Reisberg Non-Pharmacological Researcher and Clinician Award; North Carolina Therapeutic Recreation Professor of the Year; American Therapeutic Recreation Association Fellow, Scholarly Achievement, and Presidential Award; Edna Stilwell Gerontological Nursing Research Paper Award. Additionally, she was a fellow in the Gerontology Society of America and the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education. She participated as an expert in various panels for national and governmental agencies. She founded Dementia Day Camp, a consortium of dementia researchers from around the world that meets yearly to discuss the future of dementia research. She was known for her innovative, novel research ideas that were always years ahead of their time. Examples of her innovative research include Wheelchair Biking for older adults, Simple Pleasures for nursing homes, college courses for persons with mild cognitive impairments. To say that her presence will be greatly missed by her family, friends, the field of recreational therapy, geriatrics, and the worldwide field of dementia care is an understatement. Lin contributed greatly to the field of recreational therapy, pioneering the role of the recreational therapist in long-term care. She served on the board of directions for the American Therapeutic Recreation Association and led the Geriatric Treatment Network, mentoring many up and coming professionals. She developed professional practice guidelines, monographs, and shared her research and work willingly to interested practitioners through numerous trainings and presentations. Her understanding of the relationship between human and animals led her to a passion - Animal-Assisted Therapy. She worked tirelessly for Pet Partners (formally the Delta Society), becoming a trainer and facilitating classes in Florida and North Carolina, preparing hundreds of Pet Partner Teams. She, along with students and colleagues, conducted research that demonstrated the importance of animals to health outcomes. The way Lin treated love, life and work is reflected in her favorite saying, "there is no finish line". There will be an open house at 311 S Chapman St., Greensboro, NC on Saturday, May 5 at 1:00 p.m. for all friends and family who wish to attend. A celebration of Lin's life will be announced this summer where she will be laid to rest in a green natural cemetery in the rolling hills of Ithaca, NY, surrounded by nature, trees and natural flora and fauna. Lin has suggested that anyone wishing to honor her life and her work may make a gift online to the PetPartner.org or by mail: 875 124th Ave NE, Suite 101, Bellevue, WA.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Linda Buettner
Sponsored by anonymous.
August 2, 2019
K- while waiting for the ambulance to transfer Lin to Hospice I was very upset that I could
Not continue caring for her at home. She said to me , in a very weak voice, be brave, I love you I said to her what am I going to do? Who will show me the way? Who will give me the answers? She responded You know the answers, you always have. Those were her last words.
I just want to say to you that you know the answers. Sue
A
August 1, 2019
K, your life-decisions will be influenced by the love for her that you carry in your heart, and she will help guide you. :)
Lin was so incredibly kind, compassionate, and intelligent, and she very much desired to teach her students the value of service to others.
Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher.
True that.
K
July 31, 2019
I came to starbucks to work this morning. I looked up and there was a woman who looked like you from behind. Same hair. Same flowy, comfortable, linen style. I couldn't breathe for a minute, seeing her and thinking it was you....like it could still just be a dream that you are gone. Tears flowed freely, because even after all this time my heart still hopes to see you and talk to you again. That's the funny thing about grief and death- you never "get over" losing someone. It comes in waves, and the undertow can take you down at any time. I'm wishing desperately for your guidance. How to figure out what to do next. How to get back into the field after leaving it a year ago. How to decide between a third baby or trying to start my own consulting business or intergenerational day program. To get a PhD? To try and teach at a community college?
So many questions that you would help answer, or help guide me in the right direction. Just missing you desperately today Dr B.
April 22, 2019
Lin's passion and love for others shines as brightly today as it always did. And it always will.
Thank you for your post, April 21, 2019. Such a warm reminder of Lin's impact on so many lives.
Sue Fitz
April 22, 2019
seven year, how fast they go by. I think of you daily and wish you were here to answer my questions, give advice and work with. I did the DPG this week in Gatlinburg and remember when we were there together. know that you are not forgotten by your field. Know that you have 3 grandchildren now and
just like Amber did. I do still see them and we talk about the fond memories
If you. Love you always and forever. Xxx
April 21, 2019
Seven years. How is it even possible? I have two children now and I think little Iris would amuse you greatly. The way her blue eyes twinkle reminds me of you when you were excited talking about research. I'm looking into doctoral programs after going to a conference at Clemson. It was my first conference since SRTS in 2012 we were supposed to present at together. I saw Laura Kelly and her passion for the field reminded me of you. I felt your presence there, in her words. I told her how proud you would be of the work she is doing, because I could just feel you there. I'm working on plans for my own intergenerational day center. So many ideas to run by you and guidance I wish you could provide. Even after all this time, your light still guides me.
My husband built us a tree house. You would love it. He has plans for a zip line like yours. I still hear you best when I am amongst the trees.
Missing you always, my dearest mentor.
February 25, 2016
4 years ago today I took a leap of faith to apply to graduate school for the gerontology program. I still use your resources and your books every day. I wish we could talk about programming and the amazing way music reaches so many. I miss you.
February 23, 2016
Still think about you all the time, Lin. You were a great person. ~a
Sherri DioGuardi
May 25, 2014
I just learned of Linda's passing. I was fortunate enough to work as her research assistant while attending FGCU, and I considered both her and Sue to be my mentors. I greatly admired their wonderful, groundbreaking work, and I will NEVER forget how much they helped both me and my mother-in-law, Nancy. I am forever grateful and really regret that I had not stayed in touch. I wrongly assumed I had plenty of time to reconnect. Feeling sad, and I know my ex (Mike) will also be grief-stricken when Informed.
February 25, 2014
I was just thinking of you last Tuesday while visiting a nursing home with may daughter's girl scout troop. The girls were handing out valentines to the residents and enjoying their company. I asked one of the recreation therapists if he had ever heard of you - he had, of course. I was proud and honored to tell him that you were one of my mentors...one who left a life long impact on my life. Thank you for sharing your passion and talents - you are very missed.
June (Isaac)Dewhirst
February 8, 2014
A week has passed since I first learned of Linda's passing. Memories
are flooding my mind.
Watching the video clip of her holding the rooster is wonderful. It's so real...beautifully simple and fun.
I always thought I would see her again.
Your note is a comfort to me.
I wish comfort for you.
Sue Fitzsimmons
February 5, 2014
June, Linda spoke about you on occasion and how much you meant to her. I wish I could have informed you... Thanks for your kind words
January 2, 2014
I new year and another year without you. I am trying to keep your light alive. Love you with all my heart
December 31, 2013
Today marks the end of another year. I was going through my old emails, and found so many from you. I start my thesis in January and I've applied for a few different jobs; I'm especially excited about the ombudman position available and hope to hear from them soon. I got married in September and wished you were there. I think you would have enjoyed the venue, very rustic and set back amongst the trees. On days when things seem too hard, I go to the zip lines where my husband works. I'll never forget you welcoming us to your house and showing us your zip line in your backyard, even in the light rain. You are still such a light and I desperately miss you, so much that it seems selfish. So much knowledge was lost with you, inspiration and encouragement too. I hope my work and life can have just a fraction of the impact that yours does. I miss you.
April 19, 2013
I think of you often, Linda and I feel so grateful to have known you. May your family find peace and comfort in knowing that they will see you again someday. Love never dies.
Isabel Tiffen
April 9, 2013
I am preparing a presentation on falls prevention and long-term care and am thinking of Linda and her work. I met Linda several times through ATRA and had invited her to speak at the NYSTRA (NYS Therapeutic Recreation Assoc)conference one year. She was an inspirational and dynamic person. I am so sorry that she is no longer with us. Her accomplishments live on and continue to benefit so many. I'm so sorry for those of you that loved her.
Isabel Tiffen, CTRS
February 6, 2013
The things we truly love stay with us always, locked in our hearts, as long as life remains. ~a
Hiking with Sue
Sue Fitzsimmons
January 22, 2013
Went hiking alone yesterday on the trail we use to take. I saw you in the sparkles of the sun on the water, heard you as the crunching of leaves beneath my feet, felt you as the wind blew, searched for you on the trail up ahead. Miss you always, love forever. Sue
January 21, 2013
Missing you today and every day. I think you would like the research assistantship projects I am working on. I'm also taking a really interesting class that I want to talk to you about. It is a sensation and perception class that I worked in to count as an elective. I'm approaching it from a dementia perspective hoping to better understand how a brain with dementia is perceiving the world. We always talked in class about perception being reality, and I see that so much with the lady I work with every week. So many doors and windows have opened for me because of your guidance and encouragement. I just selfishly wish you were here to experience it with me. I know I'll see you again someday, and I'm grateful for the short time I had with you.
Mary (Guiffre) Dwyer
January 20, 2013
Miss Buettner was my HIgh School soccer coach during my Sophomore year at Victor Central School. For some strange reason, I thought of her yesterday and decided to "Google" her. The first thing I saw was that she was now Dr. Buettner, doing incredible work... and sadly the second was her obituary. Miss Buettner was an incredible coach and a wonderful person. She gave me encouragement every day - both on and off the field... and even though it has been 32 years - her inspiration continues to stick with me. Much sympathy to all her family and loved ones. Time will heal.
January 8, 2013
And ever has it been known that love knows not its own depth until the hour of separation
Susan Whitman-Mazzuckelli, L.V.T
January 3, 2013
I was reading the IC magazine this morning and was saddened by the news of Coach Buettners passing. I was on the IC Womens Soccer team from 82-86. and eventhough she was our coach, she was the heart and soul of our team and will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to Sue and her family.
January 2, 2013
Happy New Year Lin. I still miss you so much. It still seems so wrong that you are gone. I think of you so often. Sending out a copy of the Simple Pleasures manual today. Your greatness goes on and on... Your scarf keeps me so warm. I feel cold every time I don't wear it. a
January 1, 2013
I received my Ithaca Quarterly as always in December and was shocked to read about Linda's passing. I was on the Ithaca College mens track team and Linda was a coach for the Womens team at the time. she went with the mens and womens team when we flew to Lacrosse Wisconsin for the Nationals back in the 80's, what great memories. What an absolute wonderful beautiful person Linda was. I learned so much from her when she was working at the Willard Psychiatric facility in Willard N.Y. I was interning at the time and was amazed at the things she was doing with the patients, she was light years ahead of her time. I am now 24 years into my Career at the Bath Veterans Administration as a Recreation Therapist. I owe much of my skills to Linda. It saddens me to see someone with Lindas skills, knowledge and compassion be taken from this world so early in life. God Bless you Linda, you will be in my prays as well as you Sue.
December 4, 2012
Saw an email thread with messages from you the other day. Drove by your house the other day. Thought of you while I looked out over a mountaintop the other day. Drank a cup of delicious coffee and thought of you the other day. Thinking of you - every day.
October 30, 2012
Time can never take away the part of me that is you.a
October 11, 2012
Saw a quote this weekend on a Blue Ridge parkway rock memorial for Stephen Mather. When I read it, your memory flooded my mind, so I'm dedicating it to you Lin.
"There will never come an end to the good she has done."
I will always think of you when I'm in the mountains, and every year when the forget-me-nots bloom, I will say a prayer of thanks for the time you were a part of my life.
~a
October 5, 2012
We booked the chapel and reception today. You would love it. We'll be surrounded by trees and flowing creeks and water cascading over rocks. I feel your presence most when I'm amongst the trees.
Every time I go on a zip line I'm taken back to the afternoon in your backyard. I have a research assistantship with the director of my program and I think you would love the work we are doing. I wouldn't be doing any of it without your guidance. I know deep down you are in a better place, but I selfishly wish you were still here with us. There are so many things I wish I had told you, so many questions I want to ask. You taught me so much, so much about myself, so much about the world of dementia. There are so many things I wish I knew about you and what you think about things. I hope you and boo boo are having a grand time and taking many walks together. It's comforting to know you're best friend is with you again.
Your life partner Sue Fitzsimmons
October 3, 2012
"Life is not the way it is suppose to be. It is the way it is. How you cope with it is what makes the difference."
Life without you is not the way it should be. I am trying my best to cope without you
a
October 1, 2012
I miss you
I miss your smile
And I still shed a tear
Every once in a while
And even though it's different now
You're still here somehow
My heart won't let you go
And I need you to know
I miss you
You used to call me a dreamer
Oh how I wish you could see
Everything that's happening for me
I'm thinking back on the past
It's true that time is flying by too fast
I know you're in a better place, yeah
But I wish that I could see your face, oh
I know you're where you need to be
Even though it's not here with me
Ellen Phipps
August 31, 2012
To Lin's Family, Friends and life-long Partner,
Though I did not know her well, I considered Dr. Buettner a mentor and inspiration. I am a recreational therapist working in field of dementia. I am enrolled in the Master's of Gerontology program at VCU as a "mature" student. I had reached out to Dr. Buettner several years ago based on the fact that every time I researched what I thought was a novel idea, her name came up having done amazing work in that particular area! We developed an excellent telephone relationship; she helped me with several articles for her journal. I considered her my "guru" and inspiration. I was astounded at how supportive she was - so willing to help this student from another University- someone she really didn't even know. She read my work and provided great feedback. She openly shared her thoughts and ideas, and I know her contribution to the filed was phenomenal . In fact, I was looking for one of her papers this morning on-line when, instead, I came across her obituary. I am so sorry for your loss. She was clearly an amazing person. She will be greatly missed. Not too many people make such a great impact on improving the quality of life for others - especially in such a relatively short time. She will be sorely missed. She left too soon.
Carter Pinnix
August 17, 2012
Dear Sue and Family,
I attended the last Pet Partners handlers class that Dr. Buettner taught earlier this year. Thanks to Lin's knowledge and the confidence she inspired, my dog and I passed the exam with the highest possible rating. We could not have done it without her. We have been working now for four months in an independent care facility for adults with developmental disabilities, the first team to ever be part of a program there. Not a single visit goes by that I don't recall the things Lin taught me. Please know that her sweet nature and kind heart touched someone she only knew for a single day. I'm so sorry that she is gone.
August 15, 2012
Amy, It must be so difficult for you, as it is for me. Such a good person....
amy
August 14, 2012
its just not getting any easier
August 13, 2012
:(
Carol (Brenenstuhl) Michie
July 20, 2012
I received my copy of the SUNY Cortland Alumni News today and was totally disheartened to see Linda's name listed in the "In Memoriam" column. I had contacted Linda about a year ago and was so pleased to find her after all these years. In reading her obituary and the condolences I see that Linda continued to shine throughout her life as she did when I knew her at SUNY Cortland. Linda was my roommate during our freshman year at Cortland and she remained a close friend throughout our time in Cortland. She was always a great inspiration to others and I am so pleased to know she continued to make a difference in the lives of others. Her time here was much too short and I extend my heartfelt condolences to Linda's loved ones. May you be comforted to know that Linda will be missed by many, even those of us who have not seen her in many years. May God bless you.
Barb Parker
June 12, 2012
My Condolences to Linda's loved ones, a great loss for those left behind but a wonderful adventure begins for Linda.
Eileen Jones
June 12, 2012
WOW - I just heard of Lin's passing while listening to a geriatric competencies webinar where her name came up (as in most beneficial trainings on gertiatric topics). I was intantly saddened to hear this news. I've attended so many of Lin's sessions over the years and learned so much from her. I pray for all of you who are mourning her now and pray that you soon will be only be able to have the happiest of memories when you think of her.
Seamus and Shelly - Therapy Team at Dorn VA
Michele Pyle
June 4, 2012
I was browsing the web for eval dates and just came across the notice. You will be sorely missed. I took my handler's course with you and brought my dog back to you from South Carolina because I was so impressed with your program. I was hoping to bring another therapy dog back to you but instead I will dedicate the work he will do to you in loving memory. Just know that those of us you taught the course to, and the dogs you screened will carry on a great service in your memory.
May 26, 2012
May 26, 2012
May 26, 2012
May 26, 2012
Amy
May 26, 2012
Few are privileged enough to cross paths with someone who is so surreal that their very existence in your life is undefinable.
Lin
Sue Fitzsimmons
May 26, 2012
Lin, Today has been 1 month, it is also Jana birthday. I do hope the two of you are celebrating somewhere peaceful and pain free. There are so many people here that miss, admire and grieve for you. Love you more than ever before. Sue
Diane Donahue
May 22, 2012
My condolences, what a wonderful life, and she gave to so many people through her work. She will be missed
Kaitlin Stevens
May 22, 2012
I can't believe almost a month has gone by since you graced heaven with your presence. It's just truly sinking in that you are really gone and not at a conference or working with Ingelin in Norway. Your spirit is everywhere. At first, it was easy to think that I'd hear from you any minute. Now, I realize I do. From articles you've published, to books you have reviewed...you surround me at my internship and in life. Working with the geriatric population shows me how much you have influenced people's lives that you didn't even know. I smile everytime I see a resident who used to be a nurse care for a doll. I've gotten a resident to break out of her shell a little just by mentioning dogs. We are starting an AAT program at my internship. Gunny is starting to be ready to test with Pet Partners. When I look at him, I see you a lot. He has a feisty spirit and a sense of calm even when I'm breaking down. I miss you so much everyday. If I can influence someone's life in a mere fraction of the way you have influenced mine, I will have succeeded. Keep sending your love down to your family and friends. We aren't as strong as you.
May 21, 2012
I love you Lin!!! Amy
Courtney Castillo
May 19, 2012
I have had the great pleasure of meeting and attending several seminars presented by Linda. She was an exceptional speaker and educator as well as a motivating presence within ATRA. She will be missed, and remembered, by many.
Carl Ings
May 18, 2012
Although I have never met Linda I did have an opportunity to meet Sue in Newfoundland, Canada in 2010. The field of Therapeutic Recreation really benefited from Dr. Beuttner's work and passion. Sue, please accept my prayers for your family during this time of lose and be comforted in knowing all the lives that have been changed by the passion Linda and yourself brought to so many people.
Sarah Humes
May 10, 2012
I have known about Lin through the field of TR for several years, it wasn't until recently though that I had the opportunity to work with her professionally as well as take one of her graduate classes. Lin asked me to take on the role of Geriatric Treatment Network co-leader- I can only hope to strive to be the wonderful clinitian that she was. Thank you for the short time we got to know eachother...
Tracey Ranieri
May 9, 2012
I played 4 years of great soccer at IC under the guidance of Lin Buettner. She cared, mentored and coached me in a way that inspired me to be a college soccer coach myself. She was a change agent and a positive and compassionate human being. I know my teammates feel the same way. I am so glad I told her how much she meant to me over the years and will always be grateful for her guidance in my life.
April Motaung
May 8, 2012
I only had her for a coach for one year at IC, but she influenced me greatly. I am honored to have been a recipient of her "soccer-fice" award. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.
Antoinette Buettner/Farr
May 8, 2012
Though we haven't seen each other since chilhood my cousin, we shared many same interests. Having been a geriatric nurse in a nursing home for the last 25 yrs I have seen first hand the power of pet therapy.Funny the similar areas we both dedicated our lives to. God Bless
Nancy Richeson
May 8, 2012
I will always be grateful for her contributions to my life and career. She was a shinning star for all of us who loved her. I will miss you! Nancy
Catharine Haight
May 7, 2012
I had the honor of playing for Coach Buettner her first few years at Ithaca College. I will always remember her beautiful smile!
Patty Bigelow
May 4, 2012
I am sincerely sorry to hear of Dr. Linda's passing.
Although I never personally met her, I facilitated her adoption of a 'Hurricane Charlie' puppy that she was hoping to use as a therapy dog with Gulf Coast Pet Partners. Years later my husband and I both became registered Pet Partners with our rescued dog. By that time, Dr. Linda had moved to North Carolina, but her legacy remains here in Fort Myers and SW Florida.
Please know my thoughts and prayers are with Linda's friends and family at this difficult time.
Laura Bocko
May 4, 2012
Thank you Dr. Buettner. A great professor and mentor. You will be missed.
Debbie Clingerman Reynolds
May 3, 2012
She was a lovely person. My thoughts and prayers to the family.
Ben Curti
May 3, 2012
What an amazing life and career...wow! We were incredibly fortunate to have had Lin in North Carolina and she will be very much missed by the staff here at Wake Forest Baptist Health. Thoughts and prayers sent to family and friends.
Sylvia Parolari
May 2, 2012
Lin,You'll be greatly missed by everyone that new you.
Celeste Lynch
May 2, 2012
A role model and mentor who I will never forget!
Sheila Bonkowski
May 2, 2012
Prayers going to your family and friends. You will truly be missed.
patricia spencer
May 1, 2012
May God bless you Linda
Marcia Shalek
May 1, 2012
Lin you will greatly be missed by all who have come in contact with. You have been an inspiration a mentor and a friend. I have learned alot from you your knowledge that you have instilled in others will continue to go on. Thank you and may you rest in peace.
Yvette
May 1, 2012
Dr. Buettner was instrumental in my becoming a member of Pet Partners with my Golden Retriever. She touched so many lives, not only with her intellect but with her heart, as well.
My condolences and prayers to her family.
May 1, 2012
Prayers to Linda's sister Susan Brazo and the rest of her family.
May 1, 2012
I greatly respected Dr. Buettner, and have often used her suggestions to help some of my older patients with behavioral problems. Peace be with her
Dr John Prater @ FGCU
Megan (Kelly) & John Macario
April 30, 2012
Lin's committed advocacy of Animal Assisted Therapy and the devoted soulful companionship she shared with my mom Sue made her one of the most beautiful women I've ever known...even on her "bad hair" days. She was a loving mom, grandmother, daughter, stepmom, mentor and friend. From broken grieving hearts we send loving hopes for strength, healing and peace to Sue F, Amber, Jason, Jaymes, Sierra, & Mike B.
Lynn Housel
April 30, 2012
Sue, I am so sorry to hear of Linda's passing. I have some very fond memories of her when we were on the soccer team in high school. The joy she spread was so contageous! She sure accomplished alot and even more importantly, touched so many lives. Her memories will live on in our hearts always. God bless and keep you in His comforting arms during this painful time!
Mike Bonkowski
April 30, 2012
My dearest Lin,you adopted me as your dad,that was one of my happiest days in my life.I will always love you;I just can not believe that you are gone.May you rest in peace,Mike
Jean-Paul Reaves
April 30, 2012
Sue, my Jan has passed on now too, but I will never forget the time Linda and you spent with us that evening at the Shell Factory six years ago.
Jean-Paul Reaves FGCU, Ft Myers, FL
Angela
April 29, 2012
So sorry to hear about your loss. May the God of all Comfot, comfort you during this time. Isaiah 61:2
Denise Blanchfield
April 29, 2012
So grateful to have studied under such an enthusiastic and wonderful instructor! Her spirit will always be a part of the UNCG CTR Dept.
Jackie Meyer
April 29, 2012
I grew up next door to Linda in Wolcott, NY. I have good memories of the entire family. My condolences goes out to the family.
Lisa Carrier-Titti
April 29, 2012
Sue, I remember when you and Linda met at the Recon. You were both as giddy as teenagers. May those memories give you comfort during this difficult time.
Amber Shaw
April 28, 2012
What a privilege to have been one of her students. Her spirit lives on through her research, lectures, students, faculty members, family, and friends. She has made such an influence on me as a person... Hard not seeing her smiling at graduation this year. I miss you a lot Dr. B. Keeping the family in prayer. Love.
April 28, 2012
Our deepest condolences to Linda's family, friends, and legacy. Linda and Leo Davis
Savannah, NY
Debbie Wright
April 28, 2012
My dear cousin Sue Brazo... my heart goes out to you ... Linda was so much like your mom with a forever smile on her face that was their personality ... I am so very sorry .. I love you ... I am here sweetie , just say the word....
Crystal Watson
April 28, 2012
My deepest condolences to Sue and all of the Linda's family, friends and loved ones. Many recreation therapists in Canada are fortunate to have been trained and inspired by Dr. Buettner's work. Her passion and dedication to the field will live on. Be comforted.
Sharon Giebels
April 28, 2012
We at Cypress Cove were privileged to host a welcome reception for Lin when she came to the Ft Myers area....seems like only yesterday. I know that everywhere she went she inspired, taught, and positively influenced lives. A true angel who generously shared with all. Our best to Sue and all family & friends of Linda.
Beth Gyger
April 28, 2012
I feel privileged to have known and been mentored by Lin. The legacy she has left through her research and the lives she has touched will live on forever.
Carol Peebles
April 28, 2012
Linda was so great and a good friend, and boss to work under at Willard Pych Center. I've thought of her often, and she will be missed. I never saw anyone that treated the older population with the tenderneous that Linda did.
Katie Scherzer
April 28, 2012
My deepest condolences to Dr. Lin's family, friends, and four-legged buddies. What a loss to UNCG and our community.She was my professor this semester and got me certified in Pet Partners. What a kind soul and compassionate spirit she had, and that will always live on as we carry on her legacy of working with patients/residents with Dementia. Prayers to all.
April 28, 2012
To the family:
I'm very sorry to hear about the death of your loved one.
Laurie Jake
April 28, 2012
Dr. Buettner made a very real impact on the world in her lifetime and for many, many years to come. Her influence on the treatment of elderly individuals with dementia was both compassionate and groundbreaking. She truely did make the world a better place.
Marieke Van Puymbroeck
April 28, 2012
This was a beautifully written obituary. Thank you.
Lin was a real pioneer in our field, and so beautifully integrated RT into other fields as well. She will be truly missed.
Blessings and comfort to Sue and the rest of her family.
Trish Evans
April 27, 2012
Sue, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I am glad that I had the opportunity to attend Lin's sessions and yours at ATRA 2011 in Indy. It was a blessing to learn from one of the best in Recreational Therapy!
Debbie Robinson
April 27, 2012
Linda's remarkable legacy of dedication to her students and patients is an inspiration to us all. May she rest in peace.
Sharon Nichols
April 27, 2012
Another shining light for our profession was dimmed yesterday. Dr. Linda Buettner lost her long battle with Cancer. She was not only a prolific researcher who contributed to our profession's body of knowledge about dementia but also to our understanding about how Recreational Therapy can and does make a difference. Her compassion, her curiosity, her vitality, her humor were all elements that contributed to the scope of her inquisitiveness. She was an incredible researcher, teacher, mentor and friend. The legacy of her life work will continue to shape future generations of RTs working with persons with dementia. The scope of her contributions expands well beyond our field. Though she was small in stature, her presence was formidable. One can only accept that although her physical presence is no longer with us, she will always be a beacon of light who will guide us on our journey. I am deeply saddened by her passing but trust that she continues to be just a thought away. Thank you, Linda for all that you have done, and thank you for your life energy that will continue to guide us. You will be sorely missed by all whom you have touched but you will never be forgotten. Thank you to Lin's family for sharing her with us and deepest, heartfelt condolences to her two and four legged family members. Farewell friend.
Dan Ancone
April 27, 2012
Linda was a true visionary leader not only in recreational therapy but especially in the field of gerontology. She was a well respected individual and her passion to educate and advocate for the elderly is second to none. We can all be thankful for her many contributions towards improving the health and wellness of others. Thank God for bringing Linda into this world as an example of the kindness and compassion she showed to others each day. She will be a tough act to follow and she will be missed by many!
Brittany Millwood
April 27, 2012
Dr. Buettner was a blessing to everyone she came in contact with. My prayers are with her family and friends. She will be greatly missed by her students.
Timothy Legg
April 27, 2012
I am deeply saddened by the loss of the greatest professor, mentor and colleague that I ever had. Rest in peace, Linda
Mary Mittelman
April 27, 2012
Sue,
You and Lin created a beautiful idea of how to help older adults to live life at its fullest. She brought joy to many will be missed by many. Those of us who were privileged to know her can work now to make sure these ideas live on and flourish.
Maureen Campbell
April 27, 2012
I loved everything you stand for Linda. Thank you so much for all your innovative research to help people with dementia live with dignity and honor and leisure satisfaction. You are a Pioneer and I am very sad that you are not able to be here anymore in body. Your mind and Spirit clearly will live on forever! I am very sorry for Sue and your family.
April 27, 2012
Lin was a great person and outstanding educator and researcher. Her contributions to the field of Therapeutic Recreation and Alzheimer's disease will leave a lasting contribution. She was a humble leader who inspired many - I have always admired her dedication and tireless efforts. We will miss you Lin - RIP. Debbi Hutchins
Frank Basile
April 27, 2012
I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Linda. She has been an inspiration to all who are in the recreational therapy profession and I am sure anybody with whom she has come into contact with over her lifetime. She has been an exceptional role model and friend. Linda was truly one in a million and an angel in life and she will continue to be an angel in my life.
Bill and Fay Marie Gardner
April 27, 2012
We are devastated to hear of the passing of our dear friend, Linda. She was such an inspiration and role model to all who knew her. With touching so many lives in her shortened walk of life, she will forever be loved and remembered. Love you, Lin. RIP. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this difficult time.
Bill and Fay Marie Gardner
April 27, 2012
We are devastated to hear of the passing of our dear friend, Linda. She was such an inspiration and role model to all who knew her. With touching so many lives in her shortened walk of life, she will forever be loved and remembered. Love you, Lin. RIP.
Susan Evans
April 27, 2012
Linda was greatly loved and respected at FGCU for not only all she knew, but for how she shared it. She gave of herself in ways that transcend scholarship and teaching. Linda, as you rest with angels, know that your page in the FGCU history book is secure. Susan Evans (FGCU Chief of Staff)
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The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
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We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
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Estate Settlement Guide
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The Five Stages of Grief
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Read moreWays to honor Linda Buettner's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
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