BUCK DAWSON

William Forrest “Buck” Dawson of Fort Lauderdale died of heart failure and complications due to Parkinson’s disease on April 4, 2008, in Fort Lauderdale.  Known as “Mr. Swimming Hall of Fame,” it was Buck’s tireless efforts that established the International Swimming Hall of Fame’s presence in Fort Lauderdale, helping give rise to what many view as Fort Lauderdale—Swimming Capital of the World.  For a person who could not swim, Buck did more for swimming than any non-swimmer in the world.  He was a promoter, author, historian, fundraiser and prankster.