Board
Bios, Reports and Minutes
Molly Buccafurni - Park Manager
Rev. Ben Walls - Chairman
Ben has been married to Melanie for 45 years and they have two children, Crystal and Ben. Both children are married and have blessed them with a total of five grandchildren. Ben graduated from Mount Vernon Nazarene College (now University) with a degree in Theology. Ben has been a pastor for 43 years. For 31 of those years, Ben served the congregation of Brighton Nazarene Church in Brighton, Michigan where the church grew from 100 in attendance to over 800. During this time, he also served on the District Advisory Board for many years as well as a Trustee at Olivet Nazarene University. Ben retired from full-time ministry in 2019. He and Melanie purchased lot 101, which was owned by Mildred (Bruce) Palmeteer, Melanie’s mother. Ben is currently assisting as a speaker for vespers this season. Ben and Melanie are currently “snowbirds” with a summer home in Michigan.
GaryRoth - Vice-Chairman
Gary and his wife Rena have been owners and active residents of Dove’s Rest for 21 years and have resided full-time for the last six. Gary has served 1 and a ½ previous terms (4 years total) on the Dove’s Rest Board and has enjoyed working with his friends and neighbors to maintain and improve the quality of life for all park residents. Gary graduated from Sandusky Ohio High School in 1953 and attended college as his Air Force career permitted. He served 13 years in the Air Force with a commission and aeronautical rating. His last position was as Field Maintenance Squadron Commander. Gary went on to join the JC Penney Company in retail management for 28 years and retired in 1997. He also spent 13 years after retirement working seasonally for Trupointe Agricultural Cooperative in a variety of capacities dealing with commercial farming. Gary has been a staunch supporter of park rules and bylaw issues as a foundation for keeping Dove’s Rest one of central Florida’s best kept secrets. He has used his knowledge and experience for many years at the park in helping maintain equipment and serving in many capacities including the board of directors, taking care of the sound system and overseeing the shop.
Larry Hammond - Treasurer
Mari Docusen - Secretary
Mari Docusen is a Michigan resident, but has been visiting her parents (Jim and Maxine Ruddle) at Dove's Rest since the mid-90's. With the passing of her father Jim in 2019, Mari became a second-generation owner when she and her husbandGino purchase lot #@65. They reside at Doves Rest January through April. Mari and Gino are both retired teachers. Mari taught high school English and Art, as well as English as a Second Language. They have one daughter Brooke, who lives in FL, and grandchildren who love being a part of the Dove's Rest family when they visit. Mari and Gino have been part of the team that were instrumental in putting in the pickleball court and organizing regular play. not only has served on the Board of Directors, but her gift of design has been a blessing as she assisted in refreshing the clubhouse paint and décor in 2024. When back in Michigan, the Docusens attend the Brighton Nazarene Church, and while in FL attend the Highpoint Church in Lake Wales.
Jim Pickett - At-large Member
Jim and his wife Deborah are full-time residents and have been stockholders of lot 87 for four years. After highschool Jim joined the Air Force and served for five years, the last three of which were in Japan. After graduating college in 1975 with a degree in Business Management, he joined the JC Pennet Companyrising to Men's Department Manader. The Picketts moved to FLA in 1985 and Jim began working for the State of FLA. He retired after 20 years. Jim accepted the Lord as his Savior in 1965. Jim is an active member of Lake Wales Alliance Church where he serves on the church board. He is also the past President of Lake Swan Christian Camp located in Melrose, FL and with Deborah also managed the camp's snack shack for several years. The Pickett's enjoy exploring the country and traveling in their RV. Jim has faithfully served as a Board member and volunteers to assist with many park projects and activities including helping Deborah as she serves on the Fellowship Committee.
Rev. Don Smith - At-large Member
