Carl Bussema

Carl John Bussema, 80 of Kalamazoo, was brought home to his Lord and Savior on June 27, 2023, with his family by his side. He was born on June 4, 1943, in Kalamazoo to Martin and Frances (DeWolf) Bussema.

Carl dutifully served in the United States Army in Vietnam. He earned the Sharpshooter Rifle M-14 and Vietnam Service Medal. Once his service was complete, he came to Kalamazoo and attended Western Michigan University. He worked for Upjohn for over 30 years, starting as an operator and working hard to earn a management role. He was awarded the Upjohn Award, which is the highest recognition for an employee in The Upjohn Company.

Carl was united in marriage to his best friend and soul mate, Janet Hogue, on February 12, 1971. They were blessed with two children, four grandchildren, and over 50 years together.

Carl loved to work in his yard and garden, carefully tending to his many plants. At the end of each year, he and Janet would winter over a dozen geraniums in their house so they could bloom again each spring. He looked forward to trips to South Haven on Saturdays where the family would stop for blueberry pancakes before hitting the beach.

Carl was a servant of his faith; he was a longtime member of Haven Reform Church where he served as a deacon. Above all, Carl adored his family and the many memories they made.

Carl is survived by his wife Janet; children Mark Bussema and Kimberly Rowbotham; grandchildren Grace Bussema, Emily Bussema, Addison Rowbotham, and Austin Rowbotham; and his brother John Bussema. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Barbara Bussema.

Services for Carl will be held at Langeland Family Funeral Home 3926 South 9th St. Kalamazoo, MI 49009 on Friday June 30, 2023. The family invites friends to visit from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM with a funeral service beginning at 11:00 AM. A Luncheon will follow at the funeral home before a committal service at Fort Custer National Cemetery at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in honor of Carl to Centrica Care Navigators. Please visit Carl’s personalized webpage to share memories and condolences with his family at https://www.Langelands.com.