Thomas Busse

Thomas R. Busse, age 87, formerly of Madison, recently of Hyland Park Community in Fitchburg, died peacefully in his sleep on July 3. He leaves a daughter, Joanne Nitka, of Florida; three grandchildren; and devoted nieces and nephews Janice (David) Borski, Jean (Bernie) Fugate, Bonnie (Tim) Flad, Jim (Leslie) Busse and Penny (Michael) McCanles. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Les, Ray, Jack, Ruth (William) Mitchell and Jane (Edward) Keniston. Tom grew up on Madison's east side and attended East High School before serving in the U.S. Navy from 1944-46. After his discharge he worked until his retirement at Research Products Corporation in Madison. In his youth he loved iceboating, pitching in city league baseball, and riding his motorcycles. In retirement, he bicycled with Madison's Active Seniors. Tom enjoyed caring for his home and his beloved convertible and was a skilled woodworker, gifting many with his handmade clocks. He also enjoyed meeting with friends at the Middleton Senior Center and at C's Restaurant. The family thanks the staffs of Hyland Park, the VA Home Based Primary Care program, and Wisconsin Dialysis for their compassionate care.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Bernard's Church, Middleton, at 11:00, Thursday, July 12. Visitation from 10:00 prior to Mass. Burial with military honors will be in Resurrection Cemetery