Deanna Jean Bussey, age 79, of Ludington passed away peacefully at home February 1, 2018. She was born May 20, 1938 in Traverse City to Robert and Ina (Melkild) Powell.
Deanna graduated from Northport High School and represented Leelanau County as part of the Cherry Queen Court in the ribbon cutting of the Mackinac Bridge in 1957. She worked as a flight attendant for Capital Airlines and married Bruce John Bussey of Lake Leelanau on August 23, 1959 in Northport. The couple settled in Ludington where they lived throughout their lives.
One of Deanna’s proudest accomplishments was her late career position as the Bakery/Deli Merchandiser for Prevos Grocery Stores, where she worked and mentored co-workers for 9 years. In retirement, Bruce and Deanna spent their winters in Panama City Beach enjoying their love of Fishing and NASCAR. Over the years they made a set of winter friends that they cherished dearly. She will be remembered for her magnetic smile that drew people to her and for her determined spirit, never letting adversity in life get her down!
Deanna is survived by her five children, Bruce (Jane) Bussey, Jr. of Traverse City, Gregory (Judy) Bussey and Renee (Michael) Malburg both of Ludington, Bradley Bussey (Jackie O’Brien) and Thomas (Chelley) Bussey both of St Joseph, 10 grandchildren and six great grandchildren that were her JOY, her siblings, Fred Powell, Margot (John) Thomas, Kathy Bransky, and James (Laura) Powell, and numerous nieces, nephews and other dear ones.
Deanna was preceded in death by her husband, Bruce, in 2012.
A celebration of Deanna’s life will be held Saturday, February 10, 2018 at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour prior at Oak Grove Funeral Home in Ludington. A luncheon will directly follow.
Deanna always made time and had a word of encouragement for those that were down on their luck. Memorial contributions in Deanna’s name may be directed to Hospitality INC, 1516 Ivanhoe Rd., Ludington MI 49431, the local homeless shelter in Ludington.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Ludington.