of Conway, AR
March 23, 2015
James D. ''Bud'' Shamburger, Sr., 76, of Conway, passed away March 23, 2015. He was born March 20, 1939 in Little Rock to Frank and Cladie (Watkins) Shamburger. He is survived by his wife of nearly 55 years, Margaret (Luyet) Shamburger; and their four children: James D. ''Jim'' Shamburger, Jr. of Hot Springs; Robert L. Shamburger (Sarah) of Benton; daughter Karyn A. (Shamburger) Johnson (Ricky) of Mountain Home; and George F. ''Buddy'' Shamburger (Elizabeth) of Chelsea, Alabama; eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren, and brother Bobby F. Shamburger of Florida. He was predeceased by his parents and brother, William J. Shamburger.
After graduating from Arkansas State Teachers College (now the University of Central Arkansas), Bud spent 13 years as a computer operator/programmer/engineer before beginning his hospitality career. He spent more than 30 years in the Arkansas tourism industry, owning and operating hotels all over the state. Although he started small, he eventually built an extraordinarily successful business, teaching his children the intricacies of hospitality excellence and helping them build tourism careers of their own. He was very active in the Arkansas Lodging Association, and was a progressive leader in innovation and growth for hotels in Arkansas.
Bud was appointed to the Arkansas State Parks, Recreation and Travel Commission by then Governor Bill Clinton in 1986, and served 16 years, overseeing the activities of the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism, and setting policy for the State Parks System. He served as 2002 chairman and as vice chairman twice, as well as serving on the State parks committee. In 2002 he retired from the commission and his eldest son Jim, by then a successful hotelier himself, was appointed in his place by Governor Mike Huckabee.
Bud's droll sense of humor was often heard during complex discussion and negotiations among the Commissioners, and he earned that long-lasting respect of his colleagues and employees alike with his sharp business advice and keen insight on complicated issues. While Bud worked hard all his life, he also played hard, and enjoyed hunting, riding motorcycles, restoring vehicles, and traveling across the nation with Margaret in the RV.
Rosary will be 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 26, 2015 at Roller McNutt Funeral Home with visitation following.
Funeral Mass will be 10:00a.m.Friday, March 27, 2015 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, with burial to follow at Crestlawn Memorial Park in Conway.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to: St. Joseph Endowment Fund or Arkansas Hospitality Education Foundation.
To Buddy's family: My prayers and thoughts have been with you since hearing about Buddy's passing. We were friends during our Junior and Senior years in High School and there are some good memories. In the days to come I will be praying for you.
Margaret, Shammy, Robbie, Karyn, and Buddy - I'm so sorry to read of Bud's passing. You all were so good to me during my time of employment at the Ramada. May God's own Holy Spirit hold you close during this difficult time. Love in Christ, Eric
I met Bud a long time ago through my husband Jon. He was always nice and friendly. I am sorry for your loss. Heaven has gained a good person. Bud and Jon can have more talks. My prayers are with your family. Irene mcfadden
Dear Margaret and family...how ironic..I was just looking at pics I took of the barn and fence I built for u guys back when u built ur house in west Conway...I was so proud of that..I no it was crude looking but Bud kept telling me I was doing great...I told him I never built a barn before..he said...well...I guess this will be ur first..u can do it...lol...I remember watching him following the bulldozer clearing the land and Bud following picking up roots...that always impressed me...he may have been small in stature...but a giant of a man...ill never forget the opportunity he gave me when I needed it the most...Steve
Bud was a great friend of tourism in Arkansas. I really enjoyed his dry humor and extend my sincere condolences to his family.
My sincere condolences to Margaret and family. He was a fine gentleman and great friend. He will be missed by all.
I would like to express my sincere condolences to the loss of your loved one.In the scriptures Job 14:14,15 and John 5:28, God promises that he will resurrect our loved ones in the near future .I hope that Jehovah , the God of comfort grant you peace.
I had the honor of serving on the Arkansas Lodging Association's Board with Bud. He was
a great supporter of tourism and the association.
He will be missed and I wish the Shamburger Family well and can heal from their loss.
Aunt Margaret, Jim, Robbie, Karen and Buddy, Though we haven't seen each other in many years we are family and I wanted you to know that you are all in my prayers. Rest in peace Uncle Buddy.
Thoughts and prayers are with Family and Friends.
Thoughts and prayers are with Family and Friends.
Sorry for your loss, your in my prayers
Sorry hear of Bud was a good friend I know he will be missed by many,
Our deepest sympathy to the Shamburger family.
Karla, Ricky & Mitchell Beene
Our hearts go out to the Shamburger Family for their loss! God be with you all!
We are praying for peace for your family.
Sending our condolences to the family! Much love and God bless from myself and Laiah. You all will be in my prayers.
Holly
I'm so sorry about your loss. Prayers to you and your family.
I went to "good Shepard" kindergarten with "buddy" a LONG time ago. So sorry for your loss
I am so sorry for your loss. Know that he is at peace and in good hands. I am sure my dad is showing him the all ropes. :0)
Love to all, Carol
When we lose a loved one here on earth, we gain an angel in heaven that watches over us. May you take comfort in knowing that you have an angel to watch over you now. We extend our most sincere condolences to you.
Your family members and friends are in my thoughts and prayers! You have my deepest sympathy for the loss of your dear husband, dad, grandfather and friend! May you all find peace in God's tender care! Rest In Peace Mr. Shamburger!
Praying for peace and comfort for your family, Jim Jr. Your Louisiana family loves and appreciates the man that your father molded you to be. God Bless you all.
Shelby (Tracy Bailey's sister)
Our deepest condolences to the entire Shamburger family.