Mark Henry "Buddy" Budiansky

Mark "Buddy" was born in Manhattan and raised in the Bronx in New York City. He and his first wife moved to Long Island to raise their daughter, Jessi, in the small village of Port Jefferson. Thinking the big city was calling to Buddy he moved back there several years later. It was truly just the spirit of adventure, for which he would eventually become known. Key West was his place of salvation. He treasured his years there so much that he went back at least once a year, both to enjoy the island and keep treasured friendships active across the years.

Buddy finally landed here in Daytona Beach and became the unofficial 'Mayor' of Daytona for several years. It was in Daytona that Buddy transitioned from Night Club Management to Real Estate. He had found his professional calling in life.

Mark "Buddy" was survived by his daughter Jessi and daughter-in-law Carmen Ellsworth as well as his brothers Gary and Bob and their children and grandchildren. He was also survived by his love of the past 5 years, Barbara Renaldo Wise. Buddy and Barbara enjoyed life, travel, music, and their passion for a healthy lifestyle. They had adventures in Europe, Cruises around the world, Island hopping, and bicycling through WA, ID, MT, and even MS. Barbara shared Buddy's passion for live music and they traveled to see The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, The Eagles, and Santana to name a few.

Buddy was a beloved friend, community leader, and an adventurous spirit whose warmth, energy, and generosity touched many lives. He lived fully – seeking new places, new challenges, and new ways to give back – and he did it with a smile and a ready hand. Those who knew him remember a man who loved life's journeys as much as he loved supporting others along the way.

Travel was one of Buddy's great passions. He embraced adventure in every form, from flying to Peru so he could climb up to Machu Picchu for his 60th birthday to pedaling through the streets of whatever city/state/country he was visiting. He was as comfortable navigating a mountain trail as he was orienting himself to the rhythms of a new country.

For Buddy, travel was not simply a checklist of places to see. It was a continual opening to connection and discovery.

At home and on the water, Buddy's energy found other outlets. He loved boating, and the quiet freedom of time spent on the water. He was also an avid golfer who enjoyed the camaraderie of the course as much as the game itself. He valued his regular time at the gym and on the pickle ball court – both for the physical benefits and the routine of being engaged with his friends and colleagues. He lived with a zest for life and a belief in, whatever the decade, staying fit and involved.

Community service was central to Buddy's life. He was particularly passionate about Kiwanis, where he served as a past president and played a leading role for years in diverse club efforts. With Buddy's stewardship and enthusiasm, events such as "Score One for the Kids" and the Duck Races became not only highlights of the social calendar but also significant fundraisers. Through his energy and organizing skills, these events became monumental money makers for the club – becoming vehicles for community projects and a meaningful give back. Serving on Committees and Organizations, Buddy was always willing to take on the work needed to make a task succeed.

Beyond formal roles and titles, Buddy was the kind of person who was always happy to lend a hand. Whether volunteering at an event, advising a friend, or simply showing up when someone needed company, his generosity was consistent and practical. He combined leadership with humility – able to motivate others and to do the small tasks others might overlook. That steady presence – reliable, cheerful, and unassuming – left a lasting imprint on his community and all who loved him.
Buddy's life was a testament to living with curiosity, commitment, and kindness. His adventures – both outward, in places like Costa Rica and Key West, and inward, in service to others – created a legacy of memories, friendships, and projects that will continue to benefit the community. He will be deeply missed by those who shared time on the trail, the fairway, the water, or at gatherings he helped make possible. To honor him, many will remember the simple lessons he embodied: travel boldly, stay active, lead with generosity, and always be ready to lend a hand.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations to the Daytona Beach Kiwanis Foundation, PO Box 1531, Daytona Beach, FL 32115.