Mulkey Mason Family of Funeral Homes

Donald A. Busscher (August 24, 1952 - January 19, 2014 ) Donald Albert Busscher, age 61 of Captain Cook, Hawaii passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2014 after a courageous and inspiring battle against cancer. He was born on August 24, 1952 in Highland Park, IL and was the loving son of Mr. and Mrs. John F. Busscher. Don was preceded in death by his mother, Agnes Shuetz and his daughter, Julia. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife Wanda and their talented daughter, Nicole; sister, Kathy A. Kaizer and husband Tommy; brothers, John P. Busscher and wife Lynda and Patrick J. Busscher and wife Linda; numerous extended family and friends. Don lived an amazingly full life and took great joy in helping others, inventing better ways to do things, and he loved spending time with his family and friends. Respected as a skilled craftsman, and wonderful teacher, he worked in the grocery and building industry and served over 15 years as a Special Education teacher. He enjoyed all these occupations because they gave him the opportunity to learn new things as well as shaping the lives of others to make a difference. Don was cherished and admired for his generous spirit and caring ways. All who knew him considered him a friend for life, someone they knew they could always count on, especially during tough times. He was a wonderful, loving, and devoted husband and a great dad who beamed with pride over the many accomplishments of his family. He was also a die-hard Green Bay Packers fan and a long-suffering Chicago Cubs fan. Don served as a teacher and mentor to special needs children at Judson High School, in Converse, Texas. He retired from teaching in 2008 and proceeded to fulfill a life-long dream to move to Hawaii. While he was there, he found a passion for working the land; he tended avocados, macadamia nuts and recently planted coffee trees. His farm was very successful and he named it “Lifted Wings Farm” in honor of his late daughter, Julia. Don went back to building homes while running the farm, but the call of teaching was too strong for him to resist. He returned to teaching special needs children at Konawaena Elementary School, in his community of Captain Cook, Hawaii. Don will be greatly missed by all who knew him, and especially, by all who loved him. He made life better for others, left an enduring footprint in the hearts of many, and live life to the fullest by doing, serving, and caring for others. The celebration of Don’s life will be on Saturday, February 1, 2014 at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Griffin at 14710 Hermes, Selma, Texas 78154 at 2:00 P.M. To continue to better the lives of others and in remembrance of Don’s zest for life, in lieu of flowers contributions to R.O.P.E.R. (Riding Opportunities Promoting Exceptional Riders) or your favorite charity are welcomed.