Donald James Buffum

Age, 66 passed away October 11, 2010. He was pre-deceased by his parents William E. Buffum and Florence A. Buffum. He is survived by his beloved wife, Charlene, his brother William (Bill) and wife Melanie of New Port Richey, his sister Diane and husband Dan Seeman of El Cajon, CA, his daughter, Tiffany Therien and husband Terrance, and son, Erik and wife, Heather of New Port Richey, FL, in-laws Bob and Kathy Hart of Colorado Springs, CO and numerous nieces and nephews.

Don was born in Chicago, IL on August 5, 1944. He was raised in Island Lake, IL. Don graduated from McHenry High School in 1962, and then went to American School of Beauty Culture in Chicago. He began his cosmetology career where he joined his mother, brother and sister at the family salon in Island Lake, IL. Don moved to Florida in 1963, where he resided at 1305 Donna Dr., in New Port Richey, FL. He worked at a beauty salon in Clearwater Beach, FL before joining the Air Force June 4, 1965. During this time, he did a tour of duty in Viet Nam. His rank was a sergeant, E-4. Don was honorably discharged from his last duty station with the 306th Transportation Squad on December 3, 1968.

Following his military career, Don worked at Suncoast Beauty School in Clearwater. During the years following, Don and his brother owned 6 salons and 3 beauty schools; the most well known being Suncoast Beauty School in New Port Richey, FL on Highway 19.

Don changed careers from cosmetology in 1996 and went into real estate and appraisal. Following this, he helped his son Erik, build his telecommunications company. Don retired at age 64. He enjoyed gardening and cooking at his home in New Port Richey.

Don had a wonderful relationship with his wife of 30 years, Charlene. The two of them had a close bond with his children; Tiffany and Erik by his first wife Karen Himber.

Don was loved by all and will be dearly missed.

There will be a Memorial Service held on Saturday October 23, 1:00 p.m. at North Meadowlawn Funeral Home 4244 Madison St. New Port Richey, FL. 34652