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Edward F. "Doctor Buzz" Bzdula

Edward Bzdula Obituary

Doctor of Optometry MARTINEZ, Ga. - Entered into rest on Friday, November 25, 2005 at the Medical College of Georgia, Col. Edward F. "Doctor Buzz" Bzdula, 54, husband of the late Mary Jeneth Antonucci Bzdula. Dr. Bzdula was a native of Fiskdale, MA who obtained his Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Optometry degrees from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN in 1981. He entered the U.S. Army with his first assignment as staff optometrist at Kemner Army Community Hospital, Fort Lee, Virginia. He was the assigned as Division Optometrist for 7th Infantry Division (Light), Fort Ord, CA and completed Jungle Warfare School at Fort Sherman, Panama. During his military career, he served as Division Optometrist for the 1st Armored Division, Furth, Germany and then Chief, Optometry Service at Dewill Army Community Hospital, Fort Belvoir, Virginia. During Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm, Col. Bzdula served with the 1st Infantry Division (Mechanized) in Saudi Arabia. He was then assigned to the 2nd Infantry Division, Tongduchon, South Korea. In 1995, he was assigned to the Academy of Health Sciences at Fort Sam Houston, TX as an instructor in the Physicians Extenders Branch for the Eye Specialty Course. He completed the Air War College Seminar Program at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas in 1997. His next assignment was Chief, Optometry Service at Bayne-Jones Army Community Hospital at Fort Polk, LA, followed by Chief, Optometry Service, William Beaumont Army Medical Center, El Paso, TX. He was currently serving as the Chief, Optometry Service, Eisenhower Army Medical Center, and the Optometry Consultant for the Southeast Regional Medical Command. Dr. Bzdula's awards included the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (5 Awards), Army Commendation Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, Combat Medical Badge, the Expert Field Medical Badge, the Order of Military Medical Merit, and the Surgeon General's "A" Proficiency Designator, the Army Surgeon General's highest recognition for clinical excellence. He was a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, was board certified in optometry and held a state optometry license in Tennessee with therapeutic certification. He was a member of the American Optometric Association, the Armed Forces Optometric Society (past President), and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Family members include his mother, Mary Bzdula of Evans, GA and his sister, Gloria Bzdula Gillespie and her husband, Robert of Massachusetts. He was also preceded in death by his father, Edward Bernard Bzdula. Memorials may be made to a charity of one's choice. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 30, 2005 at 10:00 A.M. at St. Michael's Catholic Chapel, Fort Gordon. Interment will be held at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery. The family will receive friends tonight, Tuesday, November 29, 2005 from 7:00 to 9:00 P.M. at Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484.

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Published by The Augusta Chronicle from Nov. 27 to Nov. 29, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Edward Bzdula

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Peter Nelson

August 7, 2016

I had the privilege and honor to work with Dr. Buzz at Ft. Ord in the mid to late 80's. Always a Soldier first and Optometrist second, I always held high admiration for this wonderful man.

Margie & Bill JOHNSTON

May 28, 2007

"COL B" AKA "Doctor Buzz", it was a really great honor and pleasure to met you and your wife, Jen back in 1981-2 as *we* started our Active Duty careers. We knew that Jen's passing was very hard on you but now you both are together again. And it is now *US* that miss you BOTH so!!! May GOD rest with you both now.

Margie & Bill Johnston

Elaine Lewis

December 25, 2005

Dear Mama Buzz, We lift you in prayer during this most difficult time. We are "Tattoo" Kelly and "Officer" Karen's parents. We enjoyed Buzz's graciousness and sense of humor whenever we visited Kelly. His faith was an encouragement; may it comfort you now. Dan and Elaine Lewis

COL (Ret) James and Tamie Kluckman

December 19, 2005

I met Buzz through his wife, Jen, over 25 years ago when stationed in Washington, DC. Pound for pound, he had more enthusiasm for taking care of soldiers and for his profession of optometry than anyone I have ever met. Buzz's view on assignments was to "send me where you can't fill, where noone else wants to go". He would then perform magnificently. He showed up at my unit in Saudi Arabi during Operation Dessert Storm, covered in dust. I didn't recognize him until he took of his SWD goggles and broke out the Bzdula smile. He had driven several hours across the dessert to get supplies for "his soldiers".



We will miss you, Buzz. You were an original and a class act. Our only consolation is that you have been reunited with Jen. God keep you together forever.



Hooah!

MAJ Dirk LaFleur

December 19, 2005

COL "Buzz" Bzdula

Dr. Buzz could never hide his love of the Army or its soldiers. I knew COL Buzz, like many, while stationed at Fort Polk, LA serving with CAJUN DUSTOFF. You are in our prayers.

Wesley Pickens

December 13, 2005

Dr. Buzz, you will sorely be missed. Our deepest prayers and condolences.

Aurora Baca

December 13, 2005

It was a privilege to know Dr. Buzz. He was a very wonderful man of good character. He will be missed.

Angela Schoenfeld,DVM

December 13, 2005

I met Dr. Buzz at FT. Polk in 2000 and was instantly impressed by his humor , kindness and humility. He soon introduced me to Honey, Gypsy and the two labs. His friendship helped me through some difficult times. What a dedicated professional he was as well as a generous and true friend. He touched so many lives. I know he is now united with his beloved Jen.

Major Rob Letizio

December 12, 2005

Colonel Bzdula was a dedicated and professional clinician and Medical Service Corps Officer. He will be missed.

CPT Kelly Lewis

December 12, 2005

I met Buzz at Fort Bliss. He instantly became my friend and over the years, family. I will never forget and always cherish the times we had together - riding, movies, and dinners at The Edge of Tx. I miss you, Buzz, but I know you're with Jen and I will see you again. God Bless

Elizabeth Gibson

December 11, 2005

It is so hard for us to realize he is gone. He was the brightest light shining. His smile, good humor and gentle way is missed. He always signed off "Buzz Out", I pray he will know that "Buzz" will always be "in" our hearts.

MAJ David Johnson

December 9, 2005

I met COL Bzdula when I was a 2LT at Dewitt Community Hospital. He was a funny and intelligent officer who taught me that when working with people, a smile goes a lot further than a scowl and positive attitude will get you through the most difficult of times. Unfortunately, he will never know how appreciative I was of the kind words of encouragement he gave me as I fumbled through my first job in the Army. COL Bzdula, may your soul find eternal rest and peace in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Lavona Smith

December 9, 2005

The first time I met COL Bzdula. I was a newly deployed reservist seeking a bit of home at the riding stables. We were visiting after the club meeting and he looked at me and asked, if I knew the difference between a Reservist and a puppy? Puzzled by the question (and not knowing yet about his sense of humor), I said "No." He quickly stated that the puppy grows up and quits whining! I immediately felt more at home. His kindness was extend further when he offered to let me ride Gypsy and ride the trails with him, Honey and the two labs. I think somehow he knew how much riding meant to me. He will be missed by those he knew and by those whose lives were never touched by his gentle nature. I never met Jen but he talked about her fondly and I know that he missed her. I hope... I know that they are riding the beautiful trail ride in the sky together. I offer my condolences to his family. May their spirits be lifted in this time of sorrow.

Keith Wagner

December 9, 2005

Although I barely new Dr. Buzz, he has set the mark for which I will try to emulate as a leader and friend.

Byron Bracey

December 7, 2005

It seems like yesterday that Elisabeth and I joined Buzz and Jen listening to the Windsbach Boys Choir while we ate dinner in Germany... Time flies... Buzz and Jen are once again together. Buzz always brightened the world in which we live. We have lost a good friend and a great person. We hold many fond memories in our hearts and minds.



Byron & Elisabeth Bracey

CSM(Ret) Terry J. Porter

December 7, 2005

My deepest condolences to the Bzdula Family. I was blessed to serve with DR Buzz at William Beaumont Army Medical Center, in El Paso, TX. A great friend, mentor,and professional soldier always willing to help someone else. DR Buzz will be greatly missed by all that he came in contact with. My family and I thank you for being a great American. I use to enjoy my visits to the EENT Clinic just to chat with you and get lifted from your humor and positive outlook. This to shall Pass. TJP

Alicia Bengs

December 6, 2005

COL Buzzz -- a great pal while stationed at Fort Polk. His infectiously good natured spirit and dedication will be missed. Lots of good horse-riding and great conversation. A snappy salute to you, Buzz.

Bill Hately (USA Ret)

December 6, 2005

Buzz...You know how much I admired you and your indelible spirit. The passing of Jen on my watch in Washington, DC, was the only time I ever saw your shoulders sag. What I would have given to see the expression on both of your faces when you met again! Buzz and Jen will remain in my thoughts as the ultimate Army optometrists as long as I am fortunate to remain on this earth. They were not just optometrists in the Army, but Army Optometrists - a minor distinction to some but a large difference for many who wear the uniform. A fond farewell and a loud standup HOOAH. Bill

Jack & Dana Barnhardt

December 6, 2005

We first met Buzz at our sons wedding five years ago in Eau Claire, Wi. He at once became a friend, with his humor and just great guy ways. When we visited our son and his wife at Ft. Polk. We renewed that friendship. he invited us to his home for dinner, introduced us to cajun food,(crawfish) and made us feel right at home, we promised we would visit him in El Paso, but we never made it there. Buzz will always be a part of our hearts, and our lives are better for him having touched them. Our Deepest Condolences to your Family Buzz. May you be with your Wife, and in a better place now.



Jack & Dana Barnhardt,

Eau Claire, Wi

Dr. Diane Brady, AuD

December 5, 2005

COL Buzz was a dear friend and touched every person who ever met him. His energetic, can do attitude always put you in a good mood. His laughter was contageous and the halls of our clinic are now quiet without him. We will all miss him dearly. I miss you Buzz and promise to look after Mary and keep cooking pierogi's for her.

Luke Solverson, OD

December 5, 2005

Buzz and I were a great team here at Eisenhower Army Medical Center. I will think of him and miss him very much every day as I pass by his empty office. May you rest in peace, my friend.

Luke

Jim Edinger

December 2, 2005

My deepest sympathy in the loss of Buzz. We spent a lot of time on the trails together in El Paso with friends. Buzz never met a stranger and always had the time to talk about horses and friends. He will be greatly missed by all he touched. I know I am already missing my friend and fellow rider.

Respectfully,

Jim Edinger

Connie Gould

December 2, 2005

Doctor Buzz was such a beautiful person that he will always touch our lives no matter where he is.

Guillermo Quiles, Jr.

December 1, 2005

It is with sadness that I took this news. "Uncle Buzz" like he wanted me to call him and I met at Fort Polk and it was instant friendship. Not a hard thing to accomplish with such a noble human being. Always in "good spirit" and a funny remark... you will be greatly missed. GQ

Dale Patrick

December 1, 2005

Buzz,

Although you and I never worked

together, I always knew of your

dedication to Optometry and the Army. It reflected on all of us.

God bless you and your wife Jen.

Dale Patrick

[email protected]

Sharon Smith, MD

December 1, 2005

I knew "Buzz" as a student at Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, when I was a medical student. He was a genuinely good, kind person.

Patrick Ballogg

December 1, 2005

Condolences to the family and the U.S. Army for the loss of a fine soldier and friend.

CSM(R) Pat Ballogg

Kandahar, Afghanistan

Leslie Burks

November 30, 2005

Dr. Buzz was a great American and will be missed. I still remember that hot sunny day riding horses at Fort Polk. What a memory! God bless, we miss you!!!



Love LB

John Leddy

November 30, 2005

Buzz will always be remembered for his energetic response to any assignment he was given. Losing Jen was devasting but he kept his career goals up front and made a smashing success of his Army career. He left his mark on Army Optometry and friends worldwide.

November 30, 2005

COL Buzz -- my favorite "Combat Optometrist". The news really brought me down. But the memories picked me right back up. My condolences to the Bzdula family.



CDR Jim Cole

dennis sosenko

November 30, 2005

Doctor Bzdula was fondly referred to as "Colonel Buzz" during the time he headed up the Optometry department at Baynes Jones Community Hospital on Fort Polk. As a care provider I can tell you that you could always depend on "Colonel Buzz" if you needed help in a pinch. No matter how busy he might have been he never said no. He will be sorely missed.

Bruce Lindsay

November 30, 2005

Members of American Legion Post 109 extend their deepest sympathy to the family and friends of our fellow veteran. A lot of us here knew Ed and his family from our days a Tantasqua High. May his soul rest in peace.

Bruce G. Lindsay

Chaplain & Sr. Vice Commander

A.L. Post 109

Dr Dave Gorski

November 30, 2005

For the past five years I have enjoyed the privilege of seeing patients in the Jen Bzdula Specialty Clinic here at Ft Myer, Virginia. I often feel her presence as former patients remember her warmth and graciousness. Now I have a second Bzdula looking over my shoulder, exhorting me with his gung-ho positive spirit. You’re right, Buzz. It is a great day to be serving soldiers and their families!

Fondly,

Dave

Ronda Scriven

November 30, 2005

Dr Bzdula had such a wit about him. You couldn't help but have your spirits lifted whenever around him. He was missed when he left William Beaumont and will continue to be missed. Ours prayers our with you.

Candy Boparai

November 30, 2005

COL Bzdula was my optometrist in El Paso. He was the nicest doctor I have ever met. Even though I was just a young LT at the time I knew COL Bzdula, he always treated me with dignity and respect, and was kind and caring, and very funny. We need more like him. I was incredibly saddened to hear of his death. My condolences to his family.

Ted and Kelly Cook

November 30, 2005

We are so sorry for your loss. Buzz was a special friend or ours when we were at Ft. Bliss, and we have very fond memories of him. Our prayers are with you at this tragic time.

Ted and Kelly Cook

Tammy Williams

November 30, 2005

May God be with you all.

Robert Partigianoni

November 30, 2005

Dr. Buzz was maybe one of the funniest people in the world. I never went down to visit him that we did not exchange a cute joke. You just had to love his stories/jokes and his laughter.

He will be truely missed.

J Whiteside

November 30, 2005

Deepest sympathy. The sting of death is painful at most. My family paryers are with you all. Hang on to the beautiful words, thoughts, and deeds to help you make it through these troublesome times. Prayer is important because our Heavenly Father (Jehovah) is not far off. Acts 17:17; Psalms 83:18; Exodus 6:3. Heartfelt prayers go out to you all.

Joshua Paulette

November 30, 2005

COL Buzz,

You will be missed greatly by all

John T. Ryder

November 30, 2005

I am very saddened to learn of the recent death of COL Edward F. Bzdula. The first time I met Dr. Bzdula was when he attended the AMEDD Officer Basic Course at Fort Sam Houston, Texas in early 1982. The total enthusiasm for his service in the United States Army was reflected in everything he did. COL Bzdula will be greatly missed.

Larry Hampton OD (USA Ret)

November 30, 2005

Buzz, you were one of the great ones. It has been years since we spoke, yet the knowledge that I won't ever again enjoy a chat with you at some future meeting is difficult and painful.

We will all miss you.

Larry

Jeff Tipton

November 29, 2005

COL Bzdula was a great mentor and a fine doctor and soldier. He always had a positive attitude about life. He will be greatly missed.

Neil and Patricia Glenesk

November 29, 2005

Buzz… the spark at every meeting, the kindest man within any room, the most dedicated professional, the proudest soldier, the sound thoughtful advisor, and the most humble friend of everyone… you sir, will be forever missed. We know you made a contribution to this World each day you were here, and we take comfort in knowing that you are once again with the greatest love of your life.

David Meinert

November 29, 2005

I am a former Army optometrist. My wife and I knew Buzz and Jen from when we crossed paths in Fort Ord, California (1986), then later we saw them at Graves Mountain Lodge (Syria, VA), then later went to Jen's funeral.

It's so sad to see they are now both gone.

Ing-Chyong Chen-Rawson

November 29, 2005

To Dr. Bzdula's family,

Please know, at this difficult time, that you are in so many thoughts and prayers.

Susan Tritch

November 29, 2005

To the Family of Dr. Buzz...Please accept our deepest condolences from all the members at the Biggs Army Air Field High Desert Riding Club.

Dr. Buzz touched our lives with his cheerful nature and love of adventure. We will miss him.

Norvell Coots

November 29, 2005

On behalf of the Andrew Rader US Army Health Clinic, I would like to express the sincere sympathy of our entire staff. Our heartfelt condolences go to the Bzdula family.-- Van Coots, Commander, ARUSAHC

Col Steve Reinhart

November 29, 2005

I only knew Buzz from professional meetings, but I never met a more upbeat, positive officer than Col Buzz Bzdula. He was a credit to military optometry and a true patriot. He will be missed.



Rest in peace, Buzz.



Col Steve Reinhart

Commander, 75th Medical Group

Lori Hood

November 29, 2005

A truly funny man with a heart of gold. My first memory of Dr. Buzz was getting my eyes examined and looking around his office and having a discussion about John Wayne. He had me in stitches the whole time. I also remember that he was always available for his patients. He will truly be missed.

Brad Guile

November 29, 2005

I knew Dr Buzz when he kept his horses at the High Desert on Biggs Army Airfield. He was always upbeat and he took enormous pleasure in taking new riders into the desert. I am greatly saddened by his death, but I take comfort in knowing that not only is he in a better place, but he is also with his beloved wife, who preceded him.

God Bless and Keep you Buzz.

- Brad Guile

Army Range Rider

Fort Bliss, Texas

Dr Joel Muirhead

November 29, 2005

Ed Bzdula or "Uncle Buzz" was a joy to work with in the EENT Clinic at Bayne-Jones Army Community Hospital, Fort Polk, LA. There isn't just a whole lot to do at Ft Polk. The folks there like to say it is a place where you make your own music. Well, Uncle Buzz was a symphony there. I still fondly recall the parties he held at "the ranch", his off-post home near Fort Polk. My oldest daughter was absolutely smitten by Ed's horses and loves riding horses to this day. I wish God had allowed Buzz to reamin on this earth longer to brighten the lives of all who came into contact with him, but if it was his time to "pop smoke" (Bzdula speak for leave or check out), well at least God allowed him to go out on top doing what he loved. Dr Buzz, you were a great American, and you will be missed. Give your best and loudest "Hooah" to saint Peter as you pass through heaven's gates.

Dr Joel Muirhead

November 29, 2005

Ed Bzdula or "Uncle Buzz" was a great American and a joy to be around. He was so much fun to work with in the EENT Clinic at Bayne-Jones Army Community Hospital, Ft Polk, LA. There isn't much to do around Fort Polk, LA, and as folks stationed there like to say, you "have to make your own music". Well, Uncle Buzz was his own symphony. I still remember the good times had by all at "the ranch" whenever Dr Buzz would hold parties at his house. My oldest daughter was absolutely smitten by Uncle Buzz's horses and still loves riding to this day. To know Dr Buzz was truly to love him. I wish God had left him on earth longer to brighten the lives of all who came in to contact with him, but it was truly time to "pop smoke" (Bzdula speak for check out or leave), well at least Ed went out on top. Saint Peter will be recieving a loud "Hooah!" any minute now if he hasn't already.

Heather Kemp

November 29, 2005

I just wanted to say that I loved going to see Dr. Buzz when he was the optometrist here. His good humor ensured that I always remembered my Dr's name, and he truly loved his work.

1SG Fred Mumford

November 29, 2005

DR Buzz,

You will be missed. Thanks for Going and Staying Army......

CSM & Mrs. Gould

November 29, 2005

Dr. Buzz, you helped our son with his medical needs and we will be eternally grateful to you for that. You will be greatly missed.

Our prayers are with your family in this time of sadness.

Mary Bigelow

November 29, 2005

Buzz was a good friend and colleague. I always enjoyed seeing him at the optometry meetings. I'm going to miss hearing his "Hooah!" Go with God, Buzz.

Patricia Malone

November 29, 2005

My deepest sympathy

Mary Dorschner

November 29, 2005

I had the great fortune to be stationed with Buzz at WBAMC and BJACH. He was always professional, approachable and a pleasure to be around. He is sorely missed.

Troy Bidez

November 29, 2005

I never met a person who didnt think Dr Buzz was the greatest. What a good man we have lost.

Fernando Morales

November 29, 2005

A great teacher and mentor. Will be missed.

Sarah Smith

November 29, 2005

I worked with "Dr. Buzz" at William Beaumont Army Medical Center in El Paso, Texas. I always found him helpful and willing to take that extra step for both patients and employees. We have missed him since he left! He was a great person.

Bonnie Cuculich

November 29, 2005

Buzz, It seems that all too often we don’t have enough time with those that make an impression in our hearts… I will always cherish the times we did have – with Karen and Kelly, at the barn with Honey and Gypsy, playing with Rocky and Angel… I remember you showing me a picture of your wife and it broke my heart seeing how much you missed her. Now you are again with her and it’s us who are left with heavy hearts.

It’s not often you meet someone and in that moment, realize how truly special they are.

I hope you realized how special are to all of us. I am truly blessed to have known you.

PARTHENIA DOUGLAS-BEAL

November 29, 2005

It was my pleaseure to work with Dr. Bzdula. He had a very unique way of make sure that all of those who work with and for him to feel comfortable and at ease. He was an asset to the Department of the Army, especially providing Vision Conservation guidance to the Occupational Health Section at Fort Polk.

BJ Kuhlow

November 29, 2005

Dr. Buzz - - - Wishing you all the peace, joy, and "happy trails" forever that you anticipated and justly earned! You will be missed by all who worked with, served with, and were honored by your friendship!

Jack & Diana Holman

November 29, 2005

We will miss you, Uncle Buzz. Thanks for always reminding us of the good things in life. We had some good times and belly laughs!

Dan/Elaine Lewis

November 29, 2005

Buzz, Thank you so much for being such a great friend and companion during our visits to El Paso. Thanks for being such a great friend to our daughters, Cpt Kelly Lewis,now in Iraq, and Karen Lewis. We will always treasure our great fellowship, our trail rides and happy times with you and your wonderful horses. God Bless, and rejoice in your blessed reunion with your wonderful wife in heaven. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Dan and Elaine Lewis

Heather Williams

November 29, 2005

Mark is always the eloquent speaker in the family, but he wasn't the one to get up with you at all hours of the morning to either "go long" or "go short". I still have you in my head every run up a hill, "Beat your booties hard, Beat your booties hard..." Never will I forget that classic day we were almost late for work because we were circling the track looking for your keys, that in the end, were in a very warm spot on your person. Buzz, you are a great friend, you will be truly missed, and always, always will have a place in my heart. Luv ya Babe.

NAKIA RUDD

November 29, 2005

He gave me a gift that I can never repay him for; Thank you Doctor Buzz.

Marvetta Walker

November 29, 2005

My memory of Dr. Buzz is one of great humor. I went to see him for an eye exam and I must've laughed throughout the entire appointment. It was such a joy to see someone love their job as much as he did. His loving and kind spirit will truly be missed.

Tim and Kathy Ray

November 28, 2005

Colonel Buzz, a true friend and mentor to all. Buzz is at top of my list of outstanding military officers, living his life everyday for others and for our nation. Even though Buzz was an Army officer, he was truly a walking example of the Air Force core values: integrity, service before self, and excellence in all you do. I will miss his smiling face, “can do” attitude, and friendship.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8

Rest in peace Buzz.

COL(ret) Glenn Mitchell

November 28, 2005

Buzz, it seems like only yesterday that I helped pin on your eagles and gave you the "key" to the executive latrine at William Beaumont. I enjoyed meeting the family and sharing the joy of your well-deserved success. I will sincerely miss your presence; you were a colleague and a good friend. I can only hope there is great fishing in Heaven. May God bless you.

David Hsieh

November 28, 2005

Dr. Buzzhoooooah! had been my "e-mail pal" over the years after Jen's illness and passing away.



The most memorial event with Buzz: When I was at USACHPPM, upon his request, we made a special trip one evening to Jen's grave site. Since that was before 9/11, we scaled the low wall, entered the cemetery, visited Jen, scaled the low wall to exit, had dinner and headed back to Aberdeen without anyone noticed. It was a rainy night but our spirit was high! Not to then COL Kluckman's worry, we didn't make the Washington Post head line, "Two Army Lieutenant Colonels trespassed Arlington Cemetery in a dark and stormy night."



Buzz, soon, you don't have to scale that wall anymore

David Hsieh

November 28, 2005

Dr. Buzzhoooooah! has been my "e-mail pal" over the years after Jen's illness and passing away.



The most memorial event with Buzz: When I was at USACHPPM, upon his request, we made a special trip one evening to Jen's grave site. Since that was before 9/11, we scaled the low wall, entered the cemetery, visited Jen, scaled the low wall to exit, had dinner and headed back to Aberdeen without anyone notice. It was a rainy night but our spirit was high! Not to then COL Kluckman's worry, we didn't make the Washington Post head line, "Two Army Lieutenant Colonels trespassed Arlington Cemetery in a dark and stormy night."



Buzz, soon, you don't have to scale that wall anymore

Kathleen Haskell

November 28, 2005

COL Buzz - your kind ways and heartfelt humor will be greatly missed at EAMC. Our loss is heaven's gain.



May God's love comfort and sustain the family over the coming days.

Mark Barnhardt

November 28, 2005

Buzz was a true friend to me and many others and touched the lives of everyone that he met. We first met at Ft Polk and spent a lot of time together. My wife, Heather Williams, and I will miss him on a very personal level. We know he is in a better place now. God Bless You, Buzz.

Carol, Scott and Quinny Rymer

November 28, 2005

My heart is definitely heavy today with the news of our dear COL Buzz. Scott and I will cherish our fond memories of Buzz, who always was looking out for me and giving me pearls of wisdom. I will cherish his sincerity, because I think that was one of his strengths, along with his big heart. I am thankful that my life was touched by him, and how he continued to always be a great motivator and a personal mentor. We find strength knowing that he did the things he loved, lived life to the fullest and now can rest in peace with his loved ones. Buzz…there will be no one who will fill your boots, but thank you for filling our hearts….

Ivonne Caraballo

November 28, 2005

COL Buzz

you were a great human being. I will always remember your kindness and positive attitude. I know you are with your wife now and will continue your beautiful love story. You will always be remember here. My heart felt condolences to your family.

Glenda (Cooper) Hallam

November 28, 2005

A wonderful friend and a great Army officer. Always smiling and a kind word for everyone. COL Buzz- you were a fine man and most certainly will be missed. Our sympathy to the Bzdula family.



Joe and Glenda (Cooper) Hallam

San Antonio, Texas

Michael Kaminski

November 28, 2005

We will always remember Buzz as a Great American.

Deborah Jolissaint

November 28, 2005

Dear Buzz,You were a BLESSING to all humanity. You made whatever corner of earth that you lived in, a little bit brighter, by the love that came from your heart. I will never forget your wonderful parties and horse rides for the children and of course your excellent eye examinations. You were the first doc to give me bifocals. You still shine in my heart. Love, Debbie Jolissaint

Sonya Turner

November 28, 2005

Col Buzz you will continue to be an inspiration to all of us to live life to the fullest. I am thankful and honored that I had the opportunity to work with you as a student and a NCO. You are truly one that may be gone but will never be forgotten. God Bless You.

E.J., Caroline & Evin Eiteljorge

November 28, 2005

Dr Buzz:

You've been a great soldier, a super clinician and a wonderful friend. Go with God.



Hooah, Buzz!



The Eiteljorges

Ronald and Jacob Crouch

November 28, 2005

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family in this time of loss. My son and I met Dr. Buzz and started doing his yard work about a year and a half ago. During that short period of time he became much more than a client, he was our friend. We will miss him.

Patti Palmer

November 28, 2005

There will never be a more "HOOAH" optometrist than Colonel "Buzz". He was always the one to call to get a bright prospective on life. He was a dedicated soldier, optometrist and friend. His career, his faith as a Christian and his patients came first. Our prayers are with his family.

Linda Williams

November 28, 2005

Doc Buzz you will be missed by all, but we know you are smiling down on us. We love you.

Melanie Schultz-Ruoff

November 28, 2005

A great man and role model. He will truly be missed.

Hutch

November 28, 2005

My heart felt sentiments go out to the family of one of the nicest men I have ever met. Thanks for the motivational kick in the pants when I needed them most. You make me proud to be a soldier's eye doc!!

Michael Chyrek

November 28, 2005

Buzz I also was one of the fortunate ones to have crossed your path. Although I too am a SCO Alumni we didn't meet until 1992. Your humor, love of life, Optometry, the Army and America, and particularly your love for Jen was ever present in your eyes and made an indelible impact on those who knew you. Time flows by all to quickly and we never know whats in store, I take comfort in knowing you valued life and lived yours as a model for others every day. We have all benefited from your presence and kindness, I was honored to know you, you have been a trusted friend, mentor and leader. We miss you already, I know you are resting in peace and happiness with Jen at your side forever. God Bless

Col Mike Chyrek, Travis AFB

Arthur Giroux

November 28, 2005

What a tragic loss to humankind! Buz was a soldier's soldier and a great human being. I had the pleasure and honor of "recruiting" Buz and Jen when they were students at Southern College of Optometry. When Buz was selected for promotion to Colonel, I sent him a pair of my "eagles" because I knew he would wear them as proudly as he wore his uniform. My condolences to his mother, sister and family. Arthur R. Giroux, COL, USA RETD.

SFC(P) Donald L. George

November 28, 2005

Dr Buzz was the most high speed Optometrist in the Army. I will miss you My Boss, My Golf Buddy, My Friend. I'll see you on the other side.



SFC(P) George

Scott Melling

November 28, 2005

COL "Buzz" was a tremendous champion of Army Optometry. He was a great mentor, leader, and friend. He loved Soldiers. He loved his fellow colleagues and friends. He loved life. He is now happily reunited with his dear companion. His enthusiam for living was contageous and was a bright light to all around him. Long will the great memories of his friendship live in the hearts of each who had the privilege of knowing him.

David Hsieh

November 28, 2005

Dr. Buzzhoooooah! had been my "e-mail pal" over the years after Jen's illness and passing away.



The most memorial event with Buzz: When I was at USACHPPM, upon his request, we made a special trip one evening to Jen's grave site. Since that was before 9/11, we scaled the low wall, entered the cemetery, went to see Jen, scaled the low wall to exit, had dinner and headed back to Aberdeen without anyone notice. It was a rainy night but our spirit was high! Not to then COL Kluckman's worry, we didn't make the Washington Post head line, "Two Army Lieutenant Colonels trespassed Arlington Cemetery in a dark and stormy night!"



Buzz, soon, you don't have to scale that wall anymore.

Susan Campbell

November 28, 2005

COL Buzz, you will be greatly missed here at Eisenhower. I find great comfort knowing you are once again with your wife, who I know you missed dearly. I will always treasure my memories with you of horseback riding, the rodeo and The Dukes of Hazzard. You were my "red-neck friend", as you would say. God bless you for your loving kindness to everyone you encountered.

MAJ Jim Elledge

November 28, 2005

I offer my condolences to the family of such a respected man, doctor, and Army Officer. COL Bzdula was a mentor and friend to many people inside and outside of his chosen professions. His positive attitude and can-do spirit were infectious to all those around him. He was a man of great integrity and will be missed and remembered by many.

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