Dozens of friends and family gathered at Pineapple Willy’s on Saturday for a celebration of life in honor of long-time local business owner, Bill Buskell.
The Pineapple Willy’s and Wicked Wheel owner died in November 2021 at 81.
I met Bill when our band booked a gig at his venue, but not before Bill ensured that I made at least a dozen trips to meet with him, was able to express the value I could bring to his club, and fully appreciated the opportunity he was allowing us.
Does that sound tough? Does that sound unfair? Yep. And more.
But it made me, kicking and screaming, appreciate the process, and more importantly, made me understand that the world is not fair, and it is tough, and if you get a break, take advantage of it.
Bill would go on to be a part of my life until his death, woven in and out of the fabric of my experiences, from hosting my wife and me at his New Orleans residence, to allowing me to be a part of the marketing of his business, to becoming something of a mentor while showing me a ‘behind the scenes’ look at his businesses, to showing me what a truly selfless, giving person can accomplish.
Saturday’s ceremony took place on the white, sandy beaches in front of Pineapple Willy’s. Many people had their Saints jerseys on and that’s because Bill was a huge New Orleans Saints fan.
Employees said he was a season ticket holder and took his employees to games for years. They also said Buskell was someone who always gave back to the community. I know, because my wife and I accompanied Bill and his wife to a Saints game and New Orleans Jazz Fest on the same weekend. He was 12 years older than me, but I had a hard time keeping up with him.
Rest easy, Bill. God Bless, and thanks for your friendship.
