01 Feb In Loving Memory: George Buffington “Buff” Weigand, Jr.
In Loving Memory: George Buffington “Buff” Weigand, Jr.
July 20, 1927 – January 29, 2023
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of George Buffington Weigand, Jr., known fondly to many generations of campers and staff as “Buff.” 🧡💙
In the Susquehannock centennial history book written by Dede Shafer, she provides the following glimpse of Buff…
Buff Weigand, a Gettysburg College student, was the second very important addition to Camp Susquehannock when it reopened after World War II. In the catalog of 1948, a new category, “Supervisor of Athletic Fields” was listed and Buff’s name appears here for the first time. His first job was Head of Maintenance and the Work Crew assembled to resurrect the camp tennis courts that had been allowed to grass over during the war. He became a cabin counselor in Seldom Inn until he was married in 1950 to Jean Washburn. Buff and his wife, and three children, Frank, Davis and Anne Louise, moved to a new cottage built for them in the deep right field of the Senior ball field when he became Head of the Hill Camp in 1963. Buff introduced the soccer program at Susquehannock soon after he began at camp. In 1984, Sam Young became Assistant Head of the Hill Camp. When Buff retired in 1986 after 39 years on the staff, Sam followed him as Head. After several years, however, Buff decided he could not stay away, and returned to camp in 1993. Bob Slagle had just stepped down as Head of the Junior Camp, so Buff stepped right into that position for several years. Since his retirement from Head of the Junior Camp, Buff has stayed on, totally devoted to helping and supporting Susquehannock in every way possible. Buff’s greatest gift to camp and everyone who knew him was his wise counseling. (pg. 80-81)
Buff is predeceased by his parents, his brother Frank Barnes Weigand, and his wife, Jean Louise Washburn Weigand. He is survived by his sons Frank Martin Weigand who is married to Angel Girondo Weigand, Davis Barnes Weigand who is married to Jean Beato Weigand, and his daughter Anne Louise Weigand Sonaker who is married to Brad Sonaker. Buff’s grandchildren are Ryan Weigand who is married to Kiki Rendall, Andrew Weigand who is married to Katrina Schweithelm Weigand, Noah Weigand who is married to Hannah Godin Weigand, and Tess Weigand. His great grandchildren are Everett, Wesley, Mason and Rose, with two additions on the way.
His family is planning two memorial services in the coming months. The first will be held on May 6 at William Penn Charter School (Philadelphia, PA). The second will be held over Alumni Weekend (July 28-30) at Camp Susquehannock. Details for both services will be released as soon as possible.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made in Buff Weigand’s name to fund Scholarships for deserving campers. Mail contributions to Camp Susquehannock Inc., 2308 Tripp Lake Road, Brackney, PA 18812 or online here.
Finally, the family and the Susquehannock community would love to hear your favorite Buff stories. Please send your submissions via email here 🧡💙
