F. Michael Busch, MD

San Diego, CA


A longtime resident of San Diego, CA, F. Michael "Mike" Busch, MD, Captain USN Retired, passed peacefully into eternal life with God on January 4, 2021 at the age of 87. Born on July 5, 1933 in Lewiston, ID, Mike attended Gonzaga University (BA) and Georgetown University School of Medicine (MD). A pioneering urologist, Mike was a physician in the US Navy and Naval Reserves, and in private practice in San Diego. Mike was an active member of several medical associations, including the American Medical Association, California Medical Association, and past president of the San Diego County Medical Society. A longtime member of the San Diego Yacht Club and winner of the Lipton Cup, Mike competed with his family in numerous regattas, completed many long-distance offshore races including the Transpacific Yacht Race, and enjoyed pleasure cruising with his wife Jo Ann and their many friends. Mike is survived by his loving family, including his wife Jo Ann Shears Busch; sister Betze Counsell and brother Joseph Busch (Mary Ann); children John Busch (Cheri), Gretchen Busch Matheson, Chris Busch (Sarah), Karen Busch Mitchell (Ben), and Michael Busch (Cathy) from his previous marriage to Judith Cavalier Hamilton; stepdaughter Karla Smith-Jones (Terry) and stepson Gregory Smith (Nancy); and 15 grandchildren. Mike was the eldest child of Nicholas and Elizabeth Busch and was preceded in death by his brother Peter Busch. Funeral services will be private and a memorial service celebrating Mike's life will be held at a future date. For those who wish to make a memorial contribution, the family suggests a charitable donation in Mike's memory to the San Diego Yacht Club Sailing Foundation (sdycsf.org). July 5, 1933 - January 4, 2021