The memory of Absecon Lighthouse's beloved keeper will be honored twice this week.
George “Buddy” Grover III was 96 when he died Jan. 4.
His life will be honored Wednesday with a "Celebration of Life" at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall beginning at 5 p.m.
There will be an organ concert of Grover's favorite music, followed by formal presentations and memories in his honor in the Adrian Phillips Ballroom.
Grover was a volunteer of the Historic Organ Restoration Committee, which is restoring the historic 33,000-pipe organ at Boardwalk Hall.
The event is free, but reservations are recommended.
The celebration continues at the Cardinal Restaurant, 201 S. New York Ave. Parking is free.
Then at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, a portion of Rhode Island Avenue will be named in Grover's honor.
“Buddy was a legend," City Council President Aaron "Sporty" Randolph said. "As the lighthouse keeper for the Absecon Lighthouse, he was a beloved figure in tourism and an ambassador for Atlantic City."
The lighthouse will delay its normal opening to 12:30 p.m. to allow for the dedication.
“Absecon Lighthouse is thrilled that Rhode Island Avenue will be renamed in Buddy’s honor," lighthouse Executive Director Jean Muchanic said. "He was an amazing volunteer, and beloved not only by our board, staff and volunteers, but by every visitor who ever met him at the top of NJ’s tallest lighthouse."
Jean Muchanic, Executive Director of Absecon Lighthouse.
“Buddy meant so much to so many," Randolph said. "The street dedication in his memory is a well-deserved honor for a remarkable man. His life and legacy will forever be remembered.”
Anyone interested in sharing photos or memories of Grover should email lighthouse_freak@yahoo.com with “Buddy” in the subject line.
