BRANTINGHAM, NY — With profound sadness and hearts full of gratitude for a life well-lived, the family of Donald F. Busch, 89, announces his peaceful passing on the morning of July 12, 2025, at his home in Brantingham, New York, surrounded by the love of family.
Born on January 7, 1936, in Buffalo, NY, Don was the beloved son of the late Phillip J. Busch and Lorraine K. Busch (née Winter). He is survived by his devoted wife and life partner, Susan Busch (née Wendel), two cherished sisters, Joann Pautler and Sharon Zima, and many nieces and nephews.
Don and Sue built a beautiful life together and were the proud parents of a blended family of ten children, all of whom now reside in Western New York, South Carolina, and Florida: Dawn (Al), Doreen, Mike, Kevin (Kathy), Keith (Susan), Daryle, Kelli (Russell), Missy, Denise (Joseph), and Alyson (Mike). His legacy also lives on through a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the treasured memory of his late grandson, Tyler Busch.
Don’s life was defined by hard work, integrity, deep friendships, and a profound love for the outdoors. In his younger years, he lived in Alexander, NY, where he built a successful excavating business. A master of his craft, Don earned the admiration and respect of his clients and community alike. He was known for his precision, dependability, and straightforward honesty—values that guided him in both work and life.
Upon retiring, Don and Sue made their longtime getaway in Brantingham their permanent home, where he embraced every season with unmatched energy and enthusiasm. Don loved the North Country trails and wilderness. He was a proud member of the Brantingham Snomads Snowmobile Club and became a familiar and trusted face along the snow-covered paths, serving as an avid trail groomer during the winter months. His dedication to maintaining the trails earned him the high honor of being named “Groomer of the Year” by the New York State Snowmobile Association, a title he wore with humility and pride.
When the snow melted, Don could be found exploring the backwoods on his four-wheeler, often as part of the Black River Valley 4-Wheeler Club. For him, the outdoors was more than a hobby—it was a lifestyle, a passion, and a source of peace. Whether navigating the woods or relaxing with a beer at camp, he found joy in the simple moments that so many overlook.
Don also had a knack for creative engineering and tinkering. His shop was a treasure trove of parts, tools, and half-completed inventions. Just weeks before his passing, he was at it again—planning to build a homemade air conditioner using a radiator, pump, fan, and a cooler of ice. It was the kind of ingenuity that defined him: resourceful, hands-on, and just a little bit stubborn.
He was, above all else, a devoted family man, a loyal friend, and a generous soul. He welcomed others with warmth and humor, and he never hesitated to help someone in need. His stories, his laughter, and his presence will be deeply missed by everyone who had the honor of knowing him.
Per Don’s wishes, he will be cremated, and the family will host a Celebration of Life at a later date—fittingly, a gathering of those who loved him most in the place he loved best.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Don’s memory to:
Friends of Lewis County Hospice
P.O. Box 266
Lowville, NY 13367
Arrangements are entrusted to Iseneker Funeral Home, Inc., Lowville, NY.
Rest easy, Don. The trails will remember you.
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