Northport Mother Dedicates Playground Equipment In Honor Of Son

NORTHPORT, NY — New playground equipment was dedicated to Northport Village's Soper Park by Maxine DeSeta, loving mother of the late Michael Budelis. Friends, family and local leaders gathered at the park on Sunday afternoon to celebrate DeSeta's donation and remember Budelis, according to the Suffolk County Legislature.

Budelis, who grew up in the neighborhood near Soper Park, died tragically in 1972 at the age of 11. DeSeta, who was the first chairperson of Northport’s resident parks committee which raised funding to create Soper Park many years ago, recently donated funds to the Village for the installation of new equipment to enhance the park-in memory and celebration of her son's life.

"This wonderful public park is a symbol of the generous and everlasting love that Maxine has for her son," stated Legislator William R. Spencer. "It is a fitting tribute that will continue to bring joy to the children and families in the community for years to come."

The ceremony, organized by Northport Village Trustee Mercy Smith, was attended by DeSeta's family, neighbors and elected officials including Senator Jim Gaughran, Assemblyman Andrew Raia, Supervisor Chad Lupinacci, Councilwoman Joan Cergol and Northport Village Mayor Damon McMullen.