BUSCH, Reinhart

—

Reinhart Busch went to be with his Lord on August 3, 2021. He was predeceased in 1999 by his first wife of 59 years, Ruby, their daughter Phyllis and son-in-law Robert Lang, in 2006, granddaughter Jenifer Lang, in 1993 and daughter-in-law Ardis in 2002.

He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by his present wife, Lillian; son, Dennis (Moira) Busch; daughters, Margo (Marvin) Zilkie and LuAnn (Dave) Barr; eight grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; along with other relatives and many dear friends.

Reinhart was born in August 1916 to Karl & Emilia Busch, a family of German descent in Zhitomir, Russia. Reinhart, (meaning “all is well”) lived a full life in his almost 105 years – and built a strong legacy of faith in God and love for his family.

When Rein was 10 years old, his family escaped war-torn Russia for Canada and they soon found their way to Forestburg, Alberta where his father bought a blacksmith shop.

In 1940, against her father’s wishes, Rein Busch and Ruby Lehman went to Calgary and got married.  Returning to Forestburg, they lived and raised their 4 children. Following in his father’s footsteps he became a welder and a valuable member of this farming community, who even petitioned (and won!) to keep him from being sent to fight overseas in WWII.

In 1957, Rein & Ruby sold the business and moved to Kelowna, BC with their 4 children. Rein continued to work in welding and machine repair and eventually worked for the Parks Dept., caring for Kelowna’s flowers, something he loved to do. Rein and his wife served the church faithfully as founding members of Trinity Baptist Church where he proudly sang in the male choir.

In the house they eventually built on Elliot Ave. in 1967, their family grew and grandchildren arrived. Many a joyful family gathering was held amongst their beautiful & bountiful gardens. Rein & Ruby’s home was filled with love, fruit pies, God’s word and everyone was welcome.

An avid fisherman, Rein found joy in his retirement years fishing in the local lakes. He kept active working in his vegetable and flower garden, riding his “self-made” red scooter around town, swimming at the beach, managing his rental properties and always lending a hand to anyone who needed it. His homemade root beer and homegrown grape juice remain family favourites!

Rein and Ruby enjoyed travelling and were often on the go, whether they were visiting family or camping in his “remodelled” van or flying off to destinations such as the Holy Land, Europe and China.

After 59 years of marriage, in 1999, his beautiful Ruby went to be with Jesus. After a couple of years, God blessed Rein with a very special woman to spend the rest of his days with. He and Lillian Zilkie were married in 2002.

Rein Busch was an extraordinary man who lived out his life with hard work, quiet strength and deep, unshakeable faith. He lovingly gave of himself and supported his family in all of their endeavours. Although he will be dearly missed, the profound way his life reflected his humility and honour for God lives on as an example and inspiration to us all.

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” 
Matthew 6:33

The family would like to extend sincere gratitude and blessings to the kind caregivers and wonderful staff at Cottonwoods Care Centre.

There will be a private family gathering at the Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest with his first wife Ruby.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Gideons (PO Box 3619, Guelph, ON N1H 7A2) or Kelowna Gospel Mission (PO Box 22087, Capri P.O. V1Y 9N9) or a charity of your choice.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

TRIBUTE VIDEO: