Robert Busby

Robert (Bob) Busby passed away at home on August 1, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born in Signal Hill, California, on October 2, 1931. He grew up in Long Beach with his parents, J. Wayne and Fletah Busby, and his older brother, Dan.

After graduating from Polytech High School in Long Beach, Bob joined the U.S. Air Force. He proudly served four years as a crew chief on the B-29 and B-47 bombers- work that inspired his lifelong patriotism.

Following his military service, Bob returned to California and earned his Ph.D. in Speech and Language Pathology. His career was not just a profession but a calling. For more than 30 years, he worked at the Speech & Language Development Center in Buena Park, CA, supporting students from preschool through adulthood who faced learning challenges. Bob dedicated himself to helping them find both their voice and their confidence.

In 1992, Bob and his wife, Stacey, moved to Oklahoma, where he used his expertise to help veterans recover from traumatic brain injuries and PTSD. In 2012, they settled in Willmar, to be near their daughter, Molly, and her family. Even then, he wasn’t ready to fully retire. He made weekly trips to the Eagles Healing Nest in Sauk Centre to work with veterans. During his career of 53 years, Bob never sought recognition, but his kindness and dedication changed the lives of countless people.

While Bob accomplished much in his life, his greatest pride and joy was his family. He and Stacey shared 47 years of a true love story built on faith, laughter, love notes tucked around the house, and an unwavering commitment of putting each other first. She was, as he often called her, his “sweetie.”

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Stacey Danell Busby; his brother, Daniel Neat Busby (Rona Barrett); and six children: Brian Busby, of whom he was deeply proud; daughter, Molly (Steve) Gardner, the youngest and his “tiger”; sons: Kevin Busby and Eric (Christina) Busby; and daughters: Janet (Glen) Mers and Kim White.

He was “Papa” to six grandchildren: Riley (Ari) Gardner, who shared his love of sports and whose dedication and effort Papa knew would carry him far; Elizabeth (Karsten) Renter, with whom he exchanged endless teasing, and whose gift for caring for others with empathy and grace made him so proud. Keona (Dillon) Stock; Brian Busby, Jr.; Sam Busby; and Madeleine Busby. He was also great-grandfather to Daisy Gardner and Hunter Stock.

Generous, loving, and larger than life, Bob had a gift for making everyone feel seen and valued. The world is a little dimmer without him, but the love, his faith in our unfailing God, and the lessons he left behind will be carried forward by those who were lucky enough to know him.

Honoring his wishes, he will be laid to rest in Lawton, Oklahoma, in the quiet simplicity he desired. A Celebration of Life will be ongoing, honoring a husband, dad, and Papa whose impact will be felt for generations.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert Busby, please visit our floral store.