Bruce A. Buxton

Portland - Bruce A. Buxton, 75, of Portland, Maine, passed away on September 10, 2017 after a brief illness. Bruce was born in Skowhegan, Maine, and moved to Portland with his parents, Everett and Lucille, when he was a boy. He returned to Maine as an adult and taught school at Camden-Rockport High School for many years, where Bruce was a beloved mentor and friend to many of his students. Throughout his teaching career, he educated himself in antiquities, specializing in English antiques and American art, and in 1988 relocated to Portland to start his own business, Bruce A. Buxton Antiques. He was a trusted estate and insurance appraiser and a skillful auctioneer for many years. His auctions were well known for his entertaining and lively style. Associated with Skinner of Boston as their Maine representative, Bruce was recognized nationally for his expertise and knowledge of auction and appraisal values and trends. Bruce was one of a trio of antique experts on the public television show "Treasure Hunters" during the 1990's. He was also a supporter of the museums, fine arts and performing arts communities in Maine, serving on various boards of local organizations. Bruce was particularly generous to local non-profits, lending his expertise and exuberant personality to many Maine and Greater Portland non-profits, including the Museum of Glass & Ceramics, the American Cancer Society, the Boys and Girls Club of Portland, the Buxton-Hollis Historical Society and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. He also donated his expertise to numerous "appraisal fair days" in Maine. Bruce enjoyed traveling to Europe for both personal and business purposes, enjoying the people, their culture and food and fine spirits! He was a long-time member of the Cumberland Club in Portland, Maine, where he enjoyed a good glass of champagne and oysters with his friends. He could often be found at the Club having a glass of "English water" over an engaging conversation. Bruce leaves behind a number of loyal friends, including the Cumberland Club community, as well as many clients and community leaders who will miss his willingness to contribute his time and energy as well as his scathing humor, quick wit and humility. He is survived by a sister, Gail B. Weeks, and her daughters, Wendy W. Tobin and Amy Barbour. Bruce will be remembered fondly by those friends and business acquaintances who were fortunate to have attended his annual "Epiphany Parties/Events" at the Cumberland Club, where his homemade trifle and clementine cake were served with champagne - it was Bruce's way to show his appreciation for all his friends and business associates. A memorial service will be held at St. Paul's Anglican Church, 279 Congress St, Portland, on October 25 at 11:00 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Arrangements are under the direction of the Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home, 172 State Street, Portland. Memorial donations may be made to the organizations listed above that Bruce supported.