Ronald Edgar Bushy

1941 - 2021

Ronald Edgar Bushy

Los Angeles - Ron Bushy, beloved and legendary drummer for the rock group Iron Butterfly, passed peacefully with his wife Nancy next to him at UCLA Santa Monica Hospital on Sunday August 29, 2021, at age 79.

Ronald Edgar Bushy is survived by his wife Nancy; three daughters, Jessica (Jason) Kirby, Nicole Glazer (James Cooper), and Brooke (Chris) Catalfamo; three granddaughters, Sierra Stone, Olivia Kirby and Mica Kirby; three grandsons, Brandon Erlendsson, Tyler Catalfamo and Caleb Erlendsson and a sister, Karon Jones.

Ron was born December 23, 1941 in Washington D.C., the son of a Naval Officer, Commander Willard Leaver Bushy and Dorothy Mae Hutton.

Ron had a beautiful life. He was a drummer, best known for his drum solo in Iron Butterfly's 17 minute, 5 second song, IN-A-GADDA-DA-VIDA. He traveled the world doing what he loved, while earning the first platinum record with his musical group, with many gold and multi-platinum records to follow. He was self-taught, never read a note, every drumbeat coming from his heart and soul.

He was adventurous, intelligent, kind, always happy and smiling. He had a twinkle in his eye and greeted everyone with warmth that all in his presence felt. He was also known for his loving hugs and powerful handshakes.

In January of 1970, Ron had his biological daughter Jessica Leaver Bushy. On February 14, 1982, he married the love of his life, Nancy. Upon this marriage, he gained two bonus daughters and took on the responsibility of raising Nicole and Brooke with Nancy. He was a true family man.

There is not just one word that describes or encompasses all that was Ron Bushy. He was obviously a very talented musician that became a legend for playing the longest drum solo of his time. He was and is the standard for all young drummers and old alike to aspire too. Although this was a huge part of his life, the most important qualities that made him so unique were his love for his wife, Nancy, and his daughters and grandchildren. Ron and Nancy had a real and deep love for one another and a soulful connection that will never end. She could do no wrong in his eyes.

Ron was always laughing with a look of love and amusement on his face when he looked at all his girls. He was the father that took our hamster, Mickey, to a 24-hour ER just to make us feel better, or rescue baby birds with his girls.

He was the type of man who took on jobs like working at Fisher Lumber, Makita and Bosch, just to support his family, when his real passion was making and playing music. Ron lived for his family. He will be deeply missed by his family, his friends and his many fans around the world.

A world without Ron Bushy in it, is a world that has lost a giant bright light...He was a true star and warrior in every way.

Ron was laid to rest at Mt. Sinai Memorial Park in Los Angeles, California.