Dorothy Bushman

Kindhearted, thoughtful, and generous with all that she had, Dorothy Bushman truly understood the secret to a life well lived. She was a steadfast source of strength that came from her deeply-rooted faith, and she faced each and every challenge with determination and grace. A dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and even great-grandmother, Dorothy’s family was the focus of her life, and even the simplest moments shared with those she loved was time very well spent. Her willingness to go above and beyond to care for others in ways big and small has made an unforgettable impact in countless lives. Although she will be so missed, Dorothy will be forever loved and remembered.

The early 1930s are remembered as a tumultuous chapter in history for those living in the United States. Following the devastating stock market crash of 1929 just a few years earlier, the Great Depression was a heavy burden on the shoulders of many families across America. During such trying times, it was more important than ever to find everyday moments to celebrate. Nowhere was there more happiness to be found than in the household of Harry and Shirley (Delp) Haisma of Grand Rapids, Michigan, as they excitedly announced the arrival of their fourth child. Their daughter, Dorothy Shirley, made her entrance into the world on November 23 of 1933.

Growing up, Dorothy was a typical girl of her generation in many ways. Her father, Harry, worked as a farmer and a janitor for Kenowa Hills Schools while her mother, Shirley, was a hardworking homemaker. Dorothy was one of thirteen children in the bustling Haisma home in Alpine Township. She received her education attending local Comstock Park schools. After the ninth grade, Dorothy left school behind to step into the workforce with a job at Kresge’s downtown. She and one of her sisters, Marion, were able to purchase a car together.

New and thrilling changes were on the horizon for Dorothy in the spring of 1953 as she met the young man who would soon become the love of her life. His name was Gordon Bushman, and the two first met in Coopersville, Michigan. Just a few months later, their paths crossed again at Richmond Park in Grand Rapids. This time, Dorothy and Gordon began to date. Over the next year, their relationship blossomed into the sweetest bond. Dorothy and Gordon were united in marriage in Angola, Indiana, on April 30 of 1954. The newlyweds then enjoyed a honeymoon to Fort Knox, Kentucky.

It wasn’t long before Dorothy’s family began to grow. She and Gordon were overjoyed to welcome their four beloved children, Roger, Pamela, Todd, and Amy, into their hearts and home. Dorothy thrived in her role as a mother, and while her kids were young, she threw herself into tending to her home and her family. She was amazing in the kitchen and baked delicious cakes and pies. Throughout Gordon’s entire career, Dorothy would make him lunch every day. She went so far as to hide the good snacks in her trunk so that the children wouldn’t eat them all! The Bushmans had fond memories of camping in Cadillac and St. Ignace. They did the bridge walk well over 20 times.

In the early 1980s, Dorothy re-entered the workforce driving a bus for Kenowa Hills. This job gave her the gift of confidence and independence, and she would continue driving for about 10 years. When they made the move to settle down full-time on Hess Lake, Dorothy would make the trip in from the lake to drive the bus. She loved living on the water, and she enjoyed water skiing and fishing for bass and bluegills with Gordon. Through all the ups and downs of life, Dorothy’s faith was her firm foundation. She and Gordon nurtured their faith as members of Richmond Reformed Church and later Grant Reformed Church.

Later in life, Dorothy was thrilled to become a grandmother and even a great-grandmother. Her grandkids, Brian, Brandon, Kara, David, Brad, Sara, Justin, and Sadie, were her pride and joy. Dorothy and Gordon were doting grandparents and loved having the kids over whenever they could. Summers were filled with swimming and boating, and winters were for snowmobiling. Holidays were always a special time for the family. Dorothy would make candy for Christmas, and everyone received money, socks, and a stocking of their own. She loved filling her home with her loved ones. Dorothy was so happy to open her arms to nine great-grandchildren. Watching her family grow and flourish was one of her biggest blessings.

In her free time, Dorothy enjoyed watching TV shows such as Survivor, Big Brother, and The Amazing Race. She also watched the news every night, and she liked old country music and the hits from Elvis Presley. Dorothy built friendships that lasted throughout her life. She and Gordon would spend winters down in Florida, visiting the Sarasota area with the Hoeksemas. Once a month, Dorothy drove to Fricano’s in Grand Haven to hang out with a group of close friends. She met up with her sisters-in-law, Carol and Beryl, once a week as well. In her later years, Dorothy had a huge sweet tooth. She loved her pastries, and she always had a candy dish sitting out. Dorothy continued to be very active, even riding a bike well into her 80s. She had special, thoughtful ways of showing her affection, making sure her friends and family knew just how much they were loved.

As all who knew Dorothy Bushman can certainly attest, her life was filled with so much light, laughter, and love. She exemplified what it meant to grow in her faith, and there was nothing she would not do for those she held dear. The heartbeat of her family, Dorothy was a powerful role model of humility and integrity. Her zest for life was insatiable. Already so missed, Dorothy leaves behind a precious collection of memories that will be shared for many years to come.

BUSHMAN - Mrs Dorothy S. Bushman age 92, of Grand Rapids, passed away on Aug 5, 2026. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gordon Bushman; and granddaughter, Alayna Curtis. Dorothy is survived by her children, Roger (Mary) Bushman, Pamela (Joe) Frank, Todd (Rhonda) Bushman and Amy (Paul) Dierich; grandchildren, Brian, Brandon, Kara (Casey), David, Brad, Sara (Ryan), Justin (Hannah) and Sadie (Nate); 9 great grandchildren; siblings, David Haisma and Bev Lloyd; and several nieces and nephews. The family would like to extend a thank you to the staff of Optimal Care Hospice for the loving care and compassion shown to them. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 30 from 1-4 PM at North Kent Eagles, 186 E. Division St, Sparta. Interment in Washington Park Memorial Gardens. Contributions in her memory may be made to Optimal Hospice. Celebrate Dorothy’s life by sharing a favorite memory or picture.