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BORN
1948
DIED
2024
FUNERAL HOME
RONALD BUSNIUK Obituary
Mr. Ronald Edward Busniuk, age 75 years, passed away peacefully in his home at Southbridge Pinewood Court on Friday, March 8, 2024.
"Bubba" or "Buzzy" as he was affectionately known, was born in Fort William, Ontario on August 13, 1948, where he grew up in the East End and attended Selkirk High School. Following graduation he earned a scholarship to The University of Minnesota-Duluth where he excelled at hockey and in his senior year, was named an All-American in '69-70. Following university, Ron continued his hockey career playing professionally in both the NHL and WHA where he will forever remain 10th all time in WHA career penalty minutes.
Ron retired from professional hockey in 1978 and, in the mid-80's, led the Thunder Bay Twins to multiple Allan Cup victories - his proudest hockey moments. Upon retiring from coaching Senior hockey, his focus shifted to his true passions of mentoring and encouraging young hockey players with his extensive knowledge of the game. Ron enjoyed coaching his son, Bryson, in both baseball and hockey. Throughout his life, he was a frequent fixture at the local rinks where he enjoyed watching his nieces, nephews, and close friends, or sitting in his treasured seat at the Fort William Gardens.
Ron's passion for hockey continued later in life as he enjoyed traveling the US with his beloved wife, Paula, to watch Bryson play and later on, to visit their grandchildren in Charleston, SC where they spent many winters. The ultimate baby-holder, Bubba derived supreme joy from spoiling his granddaughters with popsicles and exuberant affection. Known by those who loved him as an avid connoisseur of 'fine' foods, he always knew where to find his favourite dishes wherever his travels took him. His love of food was only surpassed by his love and curiosity for people. A natural raconteur, Ron had a true gift for connecting with others through storytelling.
Ron is survived by his wife, Paula, of 52 years; son Bryson (Ginny) Busniuk; 3 granddaughters Brady, Reese, and Sydney Busniuk; siblings Mike (Jan) Busniuk, Charlotte Psikla, Kenny (Seb) Busniuk, and Larry Busniuk; sister-in-laws Brenda (Dave) Christian, Lynn Poirier, and Janne (Tim) Kerbashian. Numerous beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives also survive.
The family would also like to offer special thanks to Sierra at Home and Community Care Support Services (LHIN) and all the staff of the Sandpiper Unit at Pinewood Court.
A Celebration of Ronald's Life will be held on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 1:00pm in the WESTFORT CHAPEL, 420 West Gore Street at James. Should friends so desire, donations made in memory of Ron to the Make-A-Wish Foundation would be greatly appreciated.
Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for RONALD BUSNIUK
Sponsored by Everest Funeral Chapel The Westfort Chapel.
12 Entries
Terry Metcalf
March 16, 2024
To the Busniuk family - our condolences Terry, and Maria Metcalf
Larry Hebert
March 15, 2024
Went to the funeral yesterday and it was a true tribute to the persona and spirit of Ron. It was simple, down to earth, and fun. It was a funeral in which you laughed and felt good about humanity. Well done to the family and all the people who participated in the service.
Anonymous
March 14, 2024
Deeply sorry to see this news. Saw Ron play many times with the Minnesota Fighting Saints. He was one tough customer. Sincere condolences to the family.
March 14, 2024
Paula, Bryson, Mike, Charlotte, Kenny, Larry and families.
We were very saddened to hear from Kenny of Ronnie’s passing.
They’re are so many fond memories with Ronnie to look back on. The unplanned road trips with Kenny visiting Ronnie and Paula’s home in White Bear Lake. As a big fan of Ron’s while he was playing for MN Fighting Saints, to the opportunity of playing hockey with him, then the great privilege of being coached by him. Something I will never forget was having the honour of being his roommate in NFLD when we won the Alan Cup. Ron was not only a great coach but even a greater friend. There was so many fun times, stories and laughs shared.
Thinking of all of you at this difficult time. Wishing we could be there to give you all big hugs.
Love Wally and Michele Presenger
Janice Pellizzari
March 14, 2024
Dear Paula & Bryson -
My sincerest & heartfelt sympathies to you both. Ron was a wonderful person and a very dear friend to both John and myself and he will be dearly missed.
Robin Hill
March 13, 2024
Dear Paula and all of the extended family
I offer you my condolences.
'Gregarious' Ronnie was always great to converse with, always friendly and open.
Regarding his hockey career, I played against him in his beginning "pee wee" days, him with the Can-Car Mohawks and me with the Supercrete Satellites. He was very good even then (though we did beat them in the finals - hah, I was barely mediocre then)
Sincerely Robin Hill
Rick Malo
March 13, 2024
Fond memories of playing baseball for many years with Ron when we were young. He was good at everything. Superb athlete but a better person. A life well lived. Rick Malo Sudbury
margaret mauger
March 12, 2024
So sorry to read this today and want to express my sincere sympathy to all the family!! Many a discussion took place at Superior Trailers about the Hockey teams while picking up parts. He was always so ready to help in any way he could!! I miss my Thunder Bay friends here on the Gaspe!! God bless all of you and give you strength and courage to face the coming days! Sincerely, Margaret Mauger (Gary)
Jack Coros
March 12, 2024
Paula and Bryson. It is so sad to here about Ron. It´s been about 30 years since we met in the backyards. So many fun times and laughs. I will always remember him as a great friend.
God Bess !
Jack Coros.
Doug and Barb Adams
March 12, 2024
Out of town and just heard the sad news of Rons passing. Ron was the original smiley face with endless stories. Always enjoyed his fun loving company. Ron was instrumental behind the scenes in the midget AAA midget kings national championship of which Bryson was a member. Ronnie was chief scout of the opposition,number 1 fan in the crowd, cook on road trips , story teller, finding the best places to dine etc etc. Our condolences to Paula , Bryson and family.
Larry Hebert
March 12, 2024
Condolences to Paula, Bryson and family on the passing of Ron. He was one of Thunder Bay´s great all round athletes and Sports personalities. A devoted family man and a great fan of sports. He and his brothers have added immensely to the sporting fabric in Thunder Bay.Rest in peace Ron and enjoy all the benefits of your special seat in heaven.
Jacki and Ken Jennings
March 12, 2024
Paula and Family. So sorry to hear of Ron´s passing. Very fond memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jacki and Ken Jennings
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