William Thomas Bushong

William Thomas "Bill" Bushong aged 92 of Ionia passed away peacefully on November 24, 2024, in his home surrounded by his family. He was born April 30, 1932, in Pewamo, Michigan, the son of Thomas and Ida (Stiles) Bushong. Bill attended Pewamo Public Schools graduating with the Class of 1950. He would later enter the Air Force on January 7, 1951, stationed in England as an Airplane Mechanic during the Korean War. Bill married the love of his life Catherine B. Cook on May 20, 1955 in Ionia, together raising 4 children.
He worked the majority of his life in the automobile industry, selling vehicles for over 52 years in mid-Michigan, ending his career at age 88 with Schanski Dodge in Ionia. Over that period of time, he amassed many friends and business associates. He had an impeccable work ethic, strong integrity, and was loyal and loving to the end. He was a Member of SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Ionia, Knights of Colombus, and the Ionia Moose Lodge. Bill also proudly served on the Ionia City Council for 20 years.
He was a true Gentleman, a wonderful storyteller and known for his unbelievable memory. A friend to everyone. His Family meant the world to him, he always expressed how proud he was of what they accomplished. He made a special point to always try to attend all his children's and grandchildren's sporting events and school activities.
Surviving Bill is his loving wife of 69 years Kate Bushong of Ionia. Children, Barbara (Gregory) Wilson of Grand Rapids, Kimberly (David) Roetman of Grandville, Gary (Janie) Bushong of Palm City, Florida and Steven (Sherri) Bushong of Holland. Grandchildren, Adam Wilson, Brett (Alissa) Wilson, Chase Roetman, Kelsey (Jordan) Reed, Garret (Taryn) Bushong, Grant Bushong Alexa Bushong and Taryn Bushong. 9 Great grandchildren and 1 great great granddaughter. Sister Ann (Jack) Fahey of Fowler and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Wint Bushong and Sisters Virginia Werner and Jean Corey.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Ionia with Father Tom Brown Celebrant on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 11:00 am. Visitation will be Friday from 4-7 pm at Lake Funeral Home in Ionia with Rosary being prayed at 7:00 pm. Those wishing may make memorial contributions to SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Foundation for Prader-Willi Research in honor of his granddaughter Kaydence Reed or Mackenzie's Animal Shelter. Arrangements in care of Lake Funeral Home in Ionia. Online condolences may be made at www.lakefuneralhomes.com