By Cindy Christy Fertsch
There’s a treasure at the Absecon Lighthouse who makes a visit there extra special.
He’s volunteer lighthouse keeper Buddy Grover who greets climbers and hands out “I Climbed” cards, with an infectious smile.
Recently celebrating his 96th birthday, Buddy has been serving as a volunteer lighthouse keeper since 2009.
Buddy greets visitors as they enter the Absecon Lighthouse Welcome Center. Prior to a recent medical issue that affected his mobility last year, Buddy greeted visitors at the very top of the Lighthouse, which he climbed three times a week, even at 95 years of age.
Buddy attributes his longevity to good genes (his family members lived long lives), a positive outlook and social interaction. He very much enjoys talking with visitors and offers a wealth of information about the history of the Lighthouse and life in Atlantic City. Additionally, Buddy keeps his mind sharp by doing sudoku, crossword puzzles and reading a lot.
Buddy to answer questions and share facts about the landmark enthusiastically.
“The Fresnel lens was shipped all the way from Paris and shines for 19.5 nautical miles,” he shares. “It’s saved thousands of lives.”
Buddy is a longtime resident of Atlantic City and is beloved by visitors and locals.
For 22 years, Buddy worked as a letter carrier before traveling the world with his wife. It was after her death that he began volunteering at the lighthouse.
“Buddy’s Birthday Brunch” was held at Chart House in the Golden Nugget on Sunday, Sept. 24. About 50 people attended along with 6-ABC which shot a segment for about him for Action News.
“It was a lovely event,” said Jean Muchanic, executive director at Absecon Lighthouse.
The lighthouse is located in the north end of Atlantic City, at 31 S. Rhode Island Ave. overlooking Absecon Inlet. At 171 feet, it’s the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey and the third-tallest masonry lighthouse in the United States.
For more information see abseconlighthouse.org or check their Facebook page.
