Dr. Norman E. Bussell Jr. PhD

1947 - 2021

Norman spent his youth in Los Angeles. He often bragged that he saw groups like Simon & Garfunkel before they were big. As he made his way through school and his career, he developed a love for golf and claimed to be pretty good. He was a pilot and loved to fly. He often said there was nothing like being up among the clouds. In 2001, after returning from Kuwait he made a trip to Bakersfield to spend Thanksgiving with his relatives who introduced him to Elaine. Although neither envisioned it the time, they would spend the next 20 years together.
Norman received his Bachelors in Chemistry from Cal State Long Beach. He received his PhD in Bio Chemistry from the University of Texas Graduate School Of Bio Medical Sciences. He received his DDS from the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston. He entered active duty in the US Army. Following multiple tours that included Korea and Panama during operation Just Cause. LTC then returned to medical school. He graduated with Honors from the College of Osteopathic Medicine in Des Moines, IA.
LTC Bussell completed his training as a flight surgeon and was assigned Command Surgeon, US Army Forces Central Command Kuwait. In 2001, he returned to Walter Reed Army Institute. In 2002, he assumed command of the California Medical Detachment in Monterey California. In 2005, he retired and moved to Bakersfield. In 2012, he opened Mohave Infectious Disease went to worked for Lake Havasu Regional Medical Center. His patients and staff loved him.
After a lengthy battle with cancer, Norman passed away at home surrounded by family and friends. A Celebration of Life will be held April 10th from 4-6pm at the Rods & Relics Hall at the Aquatic Center at 100 Park Ave Lake Havasu City. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make donations to your favorite charity.
Norman always said he "was just the pretty face at the office". But we know he was an amazing physician who helped many, many people during his long career.