Obituary: David Clinton Buss
David Clinton Buss, 89 years old, of Reedsburg, Wisconsin, went to be with our Lord on October 26 in Fitchburg, Wisconsin.
David grew up on a dairy farm near LaValle as an only child and graduated from Wonewoc (Wis.) High School. He began working at Hankscraft in Reedsburg shortly after graduation. David enjoyed a long career at Hankscraft, where he was a pioneer in electric-powered, animated advertising displays.
He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church for 68 years, enjoyed ushering there for many years, and was head of the church council. David served his country in the U.S. National Guard and on active duty during the Berlin Crisis in 1961, moving his young family across the country to Ft. Lewis, Washington.
He supported his sons and grandchildren in their own athletic endeavors and took pride in leading his sons to several Little League championships as manager of the Hankscraft team. David was an avid fan of Wisconsin sports teams and passed on that devotion to his offspring.
Another passion for David was playing cards. He loved dealing in any and all comers, and more often than not he played the winning hand. He was an expert woodworker and an entrepreneur, selling handmade furniture and, for several years, operating a Speed Queen laundry in Reedsburg with Shirley.
He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Shirley (nee Hanusa) Buss, and three sons: Dale (Debra) Buss, Alan (Amy) Buss, and Brian (Brenda) Buss. He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Kaitlyn (Kelly) Cobb, Andy (Bailey) Buss, Palmer (Teresa) Buss, Kiley (Josh) Baumgartner, Emma Buss, Nathaniel Buss, and Bennett Buss. David is also survived by six great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clinton and Frieda Buss, and by an infant son, Jay Buss.
David will be remembered for many things. Family was his continual priority. Sports, both participation and spectator, were a passion. He was a company-champion ping-pong player. David loved golf and worked his way down to an 8 handicap as well as won some championships at Reedsburg Country Club.
Funeral Services for David took place on Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at 11:30 am, at St, John ELCA in Reedsburg. Reverend’s Don Glanzer and Beth Voight co-officiated. Visitation was also on Wednesday, at the Church from 9:30 am until the time of service. Burial with military rites followed at St. John’s Cemetery in Reedsburg.
A memorial fund has been established in his name for St. John ELCA of Reedsburg or the Agrace Foundation C/O 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway Fitchburg, WI 53711.
Farber Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
