Remembering Frank Bussing Jr.

In Loving Memory of Sylvester Francis ‘Frank’ Bussing Jr.

July 30, 1925 – December 20, 2024

Frank Bussing, born Sylvester Francis Bussing Jr. on July 30, 1925, in Brazil, Indiana, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his “family by heart” on December 20, 2024, at the age of 99, at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana. Frank was a cherished son, brother, husband, father, uncle, and friend whose life exemplified faith, service, and enduring love.

Frank now joins in eternal rest his parents, Sylvester and Agnes; his beloved wife, Dusty; their daughter, Hilary; his older brother, Fred; and his three devoted sisters, Marcella (Sister Francis Eugene), Dorothy (Sister Richard), and Eleanor (Sister Marie Eugene), of the Sisters of Providence at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. He is survived by his younger brother, Jerome Eugene (Gene); Gene’s five children — Anita, Barbara, Michael, David, and Janice, all from California; Sister-in-law Rose Reichman of Kansas City; five other nephew and nieces — Greg, Jane (Drake), and Marlene, of Indiana; Patti and Sheryl Cloude from Miami, Florida

Frank’s childhood in Brazil, Indiana, was filled with simple joys and adventures. He and his brother Gene were inseparable, spending carefree days with the gang at the local soda shop, Coke Haven, or swimming in the old clay pits on hot summer days. Raised in a family of deep faith, Frank served as an altar boy and often visited Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, where his three sisters entered as novices.

In 1944, during his senior year of high school, Frank enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving as a sergeant in World War II. After the war, he earned his GED and attended Indiana State University. In 1950, he re-enlisted as a captain during the Korean War.

Following his military service, Frank began a career with the Federal Aviation Administration, which took him to Kansas City, Missouri. There, he met and married Dusty in 1962. The following year, they welcomed their daughter, Hilary. Their home became a gathering place where neighbors discussed world events and baseball scores, creating a warm and lively community.

After retiring and facing the losses of his wife, Dusty, and then his brother, Fred, in 1994, Frank found solace and purpose in reconnecting with his roots. He and Gene frequently returned to their hometown to help their nephew Greg with the family farm. These visits reunited the five siblings, sparking laughter, picnics, and cherished new memories with road trips to Missoula, Montana where Sister Richard was ministering.

The final chapter of Frank’s life was perhaps the most extraordinary and glorious. He moved to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, dedicating himself to the Sisters of Providence as a volunteer driver, handyman and always a warm and loving hello in the hallways and at mealtime. His unwavering support and love for the Sisters, including his three siblings who had returned to the motherhouse, were undeniable. This was a magical time for the entire community of Sisters, who embraced Frank with love and kindness as if he were one of their own. In many ways, he truly became one of the Sisters of Providence, earning the heartfelt honorary title of “Mister of Providence.” This recognition reflected the boundless love and dedication he shared with the community. His story is one of devotion, mutual admiration, and hearts united in God’s love — a testament to the deep and enduring bonds created by all.

Frank’s legacy is one of humility, service and grace. His memory will forever be enshrined in the hearts of his family, the Sisters of Providence and all who were blessed to know him.

Funeral services for Frank will take place on January 8, and January 9, at the Church of the Immaculate Conception at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

A Wake will take place from 2:30-4:30 p.m., on January 8. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11 a.m., on January 9. Interment will be in the Providence Community Cemetery at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.