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Couple with Bucks County roots killed in Florida condominium collapse

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The devastating collapse of Champlain Towers South in Surfside, Fla., claimed the lives of David and Bonnie Epstein, who had lived in Bucks County for about 15 years before moving to Brooklyn. They also had a home in Ventnor, N.J.
The couple was in their ninth floor condominium when a section of the 12-story, ocean-front building crumbled to the ground in the early morning hours of June 24.
Married for 31 years, David, 58, and Bonnie, 56, were found days apart in the ruble that, as of July 12, had claimed 94 lives. More than 20 remain missing, according to authorities.
The couple’s only child, Jonathan, 26, graduated from Council Rock High School and now lives in Brooklyn. He told reporters that his parents were very much in love and the family was a close one. Their passion for the ocean and water sports was well-known.

Sharla Feldscher was the Epstein’s neighbor in Ventnor, and they could see each other’s decks. “They were very neighborly. Now, when I look out, it’s so sad.”
Remembering the couple, Feldscher said, “A lot of people have their dreams, Bonnie and David lived theirs.”
David’s business partner, Richard Oller, posted a memorial on Facebook, writing, “As I talked business, David countered with how much he and his wife, Bonnie, loved their early retirement.
“Through my deep sadness, my only comfort is knowing that on Wednesday, David was the happiest man I know and he and Bonnie are still together.”


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