DR. BUDDY GASTER
Dr. Walter Dickson "Buddy" Gaster of Ada, Oklahoma passed away Sunday morning, September 4, 2011 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Buddy was born in Monticello, Arkansas on August 16, 1939 to Joya Dickson and Bert Gaster. He lived the majority of his younger years in West Monroe, LA with his mother and sister, JoAnn Gaster, who now reside in West Monroe, LA with her husband Jim.
On May 26, 1967 Buddy began a lifelong love affair when he married Nina Louise Johns in Bastrop, LA. He spent his life cherishing and providing for his family. He dearly loved his daughters, Lori Murray of Owasso, OK and Kristi Dixon of Ada, OK. He graciously welcomed Lori's husband Tim Murray and Kristi's husband Cody Dixon into his circle of nearest and dearest. One of his proudest days came when his grandson, Kellen Murray was born. Kellen quickly took hold of Buddy's heart in a way only a grandchild could. The highlight of Buddy's year came when he would annually gather his family and make the trip to the Florida beaches he loved sharing with them so much.
Buddy received a Bachelor of Science degree in business and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Louisiana in Monroe, LA. Buddy received his doctorate degree from Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, LA. Buddy was an educator and administrator. His most recent position was as Dean of the John Massey School of Business at Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant, OK. Prior to being named Dean at Southeastern, Buddy held positions of Director, Center for Leadership, Entrepreneurship and Graduate Studies as well as Marketing Professor. Buddy also spent 30 years as a faculty member and department chair in the School of Business at East Central University in Ada, OK. While at ECU Buddy received faculty of the month awards five times and was named the S.C. Boswell professor four times. Buddy served on countless other collegiate boards and committees. Whenever he was called to lend his leadership and expertise, Buddy was gladly obliged.
Buddy loved teaching and that did not always mean in a college classroom. He was an exceptional educator and an accomplished teacher of martial arts, having received his second degree black belt. He spent years teaching young and old the lessons of discipline and respect.
Buddy loved animals and prized his dogs. He spent hours cultivating relationships and bonds with his dogs and none could argue that his dogs loved him in return. He was as dedicated to his pets as his pets were to him.
Buddy maintained a phenomenal work ethic and always believed in giving back to his community. He spent countless hours providing uncompensated services to area business and organizations. Buddy provided free consulting services for many small business across the region. He was Chairman and member of the Ada Planning and Zoning Board; Ada Board of Adjustments Member; Ada Chamber of Commerce Member; Ada Area Christmas Lighting Project Director; Vice President and member of the Pontotoc Area Technology Center Board; Public Relations Director of Ada's Relay for Life. Buddy maintained a very special relationship with the Chickasaw Nation and spent countless hours as an advisor and mentor to its members, staff and administration.
Buddy proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army during the Vietnam Era. Buddy served as a military police officer and during his service he was assigned to the security detail for a number of high profile government officials.
Buddy was preceded in death by his mother, Joya.
Services for Buddy will be Thursday, August 8, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Ada. The Reverend Arthur Blessitt will officiate. Following the services Buddy will be laid to rest at Swan Hill Cemetery west of Ada.
Pallbearers will be David Hatton, Phillip Perkins, Billy McCurdy, Eddie Easterling, Frank Johnson, Jr., and Brian Campbell. Honorary pallbearers will be George Smith, Frank Johnson, Sr., Tim Murray, Cody Dixon, Gov. Bill Annoatubby and Bill Lance.
The family will receive visitors from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at Criswell Funeral Home.
In lieu of sending flowers the family asks that you make a contribution to the Southeastern Oklahoma State University Foundation in the name of the Center for Native American Business and Research. The center was a passion of Buddy's as he worked to improve the business opportunities and understanding of Native American people. The Southeastern Foundation, Attn: Center for Native American Business and Research, 1405 N. 4th, PMB 4187, Durant, OK 74701.
He followed dreams, not rules.
He invested in people instead of things.
He was the uncommon combination of a Thinker and Doer.
He was never afraid of offending someone if it meant allowing them to grow.
He always sought to maximize relationships, often at the expense of time.
He vigorously protected those he loved.