William Franklin Busse

Winlock resident William (Bill) Franklin  Busse, 88, passed away on  July 19, 2020. 

He was born on May 19, 1932 in Centralia and adopted by Charles and Beulah Busse in Centralia, WA. He attended school at Winlock and Adna.  He valued education and encouraged his children in academics.  While he was unable to attend college as a young adult, shortly before his retirement he received an AA degree.   Bill worked as a Sergeant First Class in the National Guard for 38 years and in law enforcement with the Lewis County Sheriff's Office for 5 years and later as Chief of Police in Winlock for 12 years.

On April 27,1951  he married Marlene Ruth Christin.  Bill and Marlene made their home in Packwood, PeEll, Winlock, and Centralia WA. Together they raised five children and their home became a base for their children's friends.  Bill and Marlene enjoyed camping, family activities and get-togethers, and their participation in the Eagles. Marlene preceded William in death on February 21, 2007.

On May 30, 2009 William was remarried to Alta June Wachter.  They enjoyed camping, family gatherings, bowling, and pinochle club.  They took many driving trips together to visit family and friends.  He enjoyed getting to know and spending time with June's family.  June took great care of Bill as he dealt with his medical challenges.   

Bill was a member of the Centralia Eagles, serving as Treasurer for many years.  He and June were active in league bowling and in pinochle club.  He enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, and was an avid reader of history.  He often took his children and grandchildren for long drives in the local area looking for deer, passing a quarter for whomever saw a deer, the winner being the last one to spot a deer.  As adults, his children have continued this pastime.

Bill is survived by his loving spouse of 11 years, June; three daughters, Dianna Busse, Laurie (Ben) Thorson of Centralia, Patricia Busse of Port Angeles; son, William (Laurie Jo) Busse of Ephrata, and son-in-law William (Karen) Schroepfer.  Bill enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, Jeff Busse, Wyatt Teitzel, Rebecca (Nathan) Teitzel Fagernes, Devin (Ann) Thorson, Jared Thorson, SaRah Busse, and Katie (Adam) Busse O'Bryan as well as his many great-grandchildren.  He took great pride in their successes and accomplishments.  He and June spent many evenings watching their great-grandchildren in sports, dance, and music activities.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marlene, father, Charles Busse, step-father Loren Wolcott, mother Beulah Busse, and  daughter, Karen Teitzel (Schroepfer).

Bill often spoke about the good life he had and his pride and love for his extended family.  He was generous in his spirit and actions.  Bill made friends wherever he was, and was a great family historian. His family and friends were gold to him.

A graveside service will be held on August 8, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Claquato Cemetery, with Ron Grant officiating.  Covid restrictions of masks and distancing will apply.  In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the  Veterans Memorial Museum in Chehalis, where Bill has a plaque displayed honoring his service.

 Online condolences can be given at www.newellhoerlings.com

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