James Bernard Buss

1942 - 2026

James Bernard Buss, first born son to Clarence and Bernadette Buss on July 9, 1942, entered into eternal rest on January 3, 2026 at the age of 83. A devoted son, brother, cousin, nephew, uncle, and friend Jim was a proud father of four children-Carol, Jeffrey, Kevin, and Laura-and a loving grandfather to six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was previously married to his first wife Susan Getz (1968-1992) and later to Linda Teasley (2021-2026).



Jim was a farm boy at heart! He always spoke fondly of summers spent with his cousins on the family farms in St. Libory, Illinois-experiences that shaped his deep respect for the land, hard work, and family. Never losing his passion for farming, in 1972 the young Buss family moved to Forest Oak Farm in Mulberry Grove. Jim entered into the profession of an insurance adjuster using his construction skills at work and building his homes; he ventured briefly into owning and operating his own construction company.



Jim eventually built a home in Highland where he raised his family, intentionally choosing a small-town community where his children could grow up with strong values. Next to church and school, sports took over family life. Each child was expected to compete in a sport every season and the entire family spent summers at the Highland Community Pool together with Jim as the starter for swim meets several summers. A constant presence in the stands, Jim attended as many games and meets as possible, often coaching, volunteering and supporting behind the scenes. Even after his own children were raised, he continued to travel and support his nieces and nephews, proudly cheering them on.



A life-long learner, his bookshelves reflected wide-ranging interests from farming and construction to nutrition and wellness with a good amount of American history thrown in. Long before it became mainstream, Jim embraced organic farming, natural food, whole grains, and physical fitness, though he never passed up a Snickers bar or an Oreo cookie.



His love of the outdoors and water began at an early age. As a young man, Jim worked as a lifeguard at the YMCA and counselor at Camp Ondessonk. As an adult he volunteered as a Boy Scout leader for his sons and their friends sharing skills grounded in patience, discipline and appreciation for teamwork. He also enjoyed hiking, canoeing, and occasionally bow hunting, later adding RV camping with his siblings and their families to his outdoor favorites.



In 2003, Jim fulfilled a lifelong dream of designing and building his cabin at Forest Oak Farm where he spent his retirement years surrounded by the land he loved. The Farm had become a gathering place for family traditions, especially 4th of July Celebrations that grew over the years into cherished reunions filled with laughter, family memories, and of course fireworks.



Jim was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2018, a difficult and unexpected challenge for a man who valued strength and independence. He faced the disease with resilience, holding on to his body, mind, and spirit as long as possible, despite repeated health setbacks.



January 3rd, 2026 James Bernard Buss passed peacefully at the house in Greenville, Illinois. He is loved and will always be remembered for the loving son, brother, cousin, nephew, uncle, friend, father, grandfather, and great grandfather he was. A steward of the land, his legacy lives on in the values he taught, the traditions he built, and the family he loved.



In memory, loved ones are asked to plant a garden plant or a tree and simply enjoy the sunshine.