David “Dave” Frank Busfield
April 25, 1946 - November 5, 2026
With heavy hearts, the family of Dave F. Busfield, age 80, announces his passing on November 5, 2026, though we find comfort in knowing he is reunited with his “wifey,” Mary Ann, who preceded him in death on January 18, 2026.
Dave was born on April 25, 1946, to Amos and Dorothy “Dot” (Kimball) Busfield in Allegan, Michigan. He graduated from the University of Michigan with a business degree and was proud to say he was a businessman and entrepreneur, owning two successful businesses during his professional career. He and Mary Ann lived their dream of owning a log home on 10 acres, which Dave nurtured into their own private nature preserve. Over the years he had the satisfaction of watching the dozens of trees he planted as babies grow to towering maturity.
Dave was a lifelong learner. He especially enjoyed delving into the world of solar energy and was a master sudoku puzzle solver. Dave and Mary Ann lived life to the fullest in their 50-year marriage. From traveling in their motor home and making their annual trip to Florida, where he always had a Christmas day swim with his mom, to their shared passion of U of M sports and getting together often with their dear friends (which became much-loved lore to relive for years to come), it was a good life.
We were all lucky to be a part of Dave’s life. His never-ending sense of humor, intelligence, big heart, stubbornness, and devotion to his “wifey” were the cornerstones of Dave’s life. A mention has to be given to his antics at the dinner table with his grandchildren in their younger years - so many treasured memories.
Dave is survived by his daughters, Terri (Bill) Heil and Kay Deering; sister, Donna (Thomas) McQuade; grandchildren, Brad (Leah) Heil, Stephen Curelli, Greg (Lisa) Heil, and Cyndi (Ron) Heil; and great-grandchildren, Grant, Cam, Claire, Ben, Adri, Luke, and Cole. He also leaves behind friends, who embody the true meaning of friendship, John and Mary Ann Guthrie, John and Susan Irwin, and Jim and Sylvia Keough.
Along with his “wifey,” Mary Ann, Dave was preceded in death too soon by his son-in-law, David Deering, who was more like a son; dear friends, Gil Dorer and Doug Stevens; and many other friends and family.
We want to acknowledge all of the wonderful caregivers and staff at the Chelsea Retirement Community and give a special thank you to Gretchen and Caitlyn, his hospice angels who made his last months a peaceful and comfortable journey (they too experienced Dave’s sense of humor and stubbornness).
No public services will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to the UMRC Porter Hills Foundation - Benevolent Care Fund East or the Hospice of Lenawee. Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
Rest in peace, Dave. We will always cherish our memories of you and will hold your love in our hearts forever. We love you - life won’t be the same without you.
Husby and Wifey are now together again.
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