I have searched every concievable tree disease, and came up with a big fat zero. The only thing I can think of is, it's either some kind of insect feeding on the growth before it emerges, maybe thrips. The other thing is, maybe the root system is circling and strangling the tree, so the new growth isn't getting any water and nourishment. Check inside the areas where it's dying back to see if there are any microscopic bugs (thrips)Also, most maples won't do very well in your zone. I think the only one is a Black Maple. Would it be possible to check to see if the roots are growing in a circle, or if they've spread out nicely? I'm stumped, and usually never am. I had a redbud that eventually died because the roots were circling instead of spreading out. I'll keep looking for you. I know how hard it is to lose something you love.
Cathy

Cathy,

Thanks for all of the help in looking for causes. We do have lots of red leaf maples growing in my area, many in the wild... they seem to prefer low lying areas. I live in central Florida, about 30 miles south/west of Disney World.

There is something I noticed a couple days ago, on some of the damaged buds, it looks like lots of little "droppings" about the size of grains of pepper. Makes me now think that some sort of insect is involved. I have yet to see and bugs, but their are signs that something has been there. I'll try and keep an eye on it and update if there are any changes.

Thanks again, Jay