LONOKE — Richard James Busch,

89, of Lonoke, Ark., departed this life after a lengthy battle with Covid complications. His family was there to comfort and support as he ascended upward on his Heavenly journey. He was born October 23, 1931, in St. Paul, Minn., to Hugo and Marie (Stumpf) Busch. He was loving, loyal, and committed always.

He enjoyed sports, hunting, fishing, and could build anything he set his mind to. He appreciated music, playing the harmonica and the guitar. He was a member of Country Chapel Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Jean, of 69 years, brother, Hugo Busch, Jr., and sister, Jeanette Linke, both of St. Paul, Minn., sister, Patricia Robinson of Little Rock, Ark., and son, Rick Busch of Alexander, Ark.

Mr. Busch is survived by his sister, Delores Walston of Hensley, Ark., sister, Marjorie Fell of Little Rock; daughter, Kathy Nipper (Larry); son, John Busch (Ellen); grandchildren Stephanie Busch, Kathy Busch, Chris Busch, and Brody Nipper; step grandchildren, Richard Wiebe and Cindy Ball; great grandchildren, Victoria Busch, Mallory Evans, Ricky and Declan Wood; step-great grandchildren Kayla and Konner Ball, Miles and Elliott Wiebe, great-great grandchild Charleigh Busch. He is also survived by a special brother-in-law, Lt. Col. (Retired) Wilbur L. Robinson of Tulsa, Okla.; and those dear to his heart—nieces and nephews.

A special thanks to the Chaplain and hospital staff fighting Covid on the front line. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home. www.smithfamilycares.com.