Bright sunshine broke through the clouds and the heavy rains stopped as Ronald Wayne Busse passed away on Tuesday, October 5, 2021. After a painful battle with cancer, Wayne peacefully slipped away in his home in Surrey, BC, surrounded by his loving family. Wayne is survived by his beloved wife Beverley, son Mark and his wife Andrea, daughter Terri and her husband Rod, along with numerous grandchildren, great-
Born in Saskatoon, Wayne lived his early childhood with his mother, Bernice, in Watrous, Saskatchewan. His father, Walter, was in the airforce as a rear gunner during WW2 and survived (surprisingly—especially to Walter himself). At the time little Wayne loved visiting his Uncle Henry, who taught him swear words and let him nap with the pigs on sunny afternoons.
After the war, they then moved to Gretna, Manitoba, where his mother worked at the Post Office and his father at the Oil Industry storage tanks just outside of town. Wayne attended the Mennonite Collegiate Institute, (MCI) where he caught the eye of a few girls but he was too busy playing baseball, basketball and hockey to have time for girls.
While attending the University of North Dakota for his degree in physical education, he made a couple of new friends including a married couple that became very special to him. They have maintained a friendship for more than 50 years. Wayne lived on campus and they lived in married housing and spent a lot of time with each other. When he could, he helped the wife sell the sandwiches she made to other students on campus. They still make and enjoy his meatloaf recipe to this very day.
And then he met his wife-to-be, Beverley Porter, in the Altona Curling Rink, the summer of 1963. Beverley worked at the rink concession stand and one day Wayne asked her for a free raw hotdog wiener, and that was the unusual start of a wonderful romantic journey together. They dated for 4 years while each were completing their education. Bev became a Registered Nurse and Wayne a High School teacher. They married in 1967 and had a son, Mark, and a daughter, Terri.
When Mark was five and Terri was three, the family moved to beautiful British Columba and left their other family members and friends in frigid Manitoba…Still don’t know why they opted to stay in ‘Winterland’ but they did! To each their own.
Being an avid athlete, he coached and played many sports. Golf, baseball, basketball and hockey. He played hockey in BC three evenings a week, up until a hip replacement in 2011. His wife thought she was the love of his life, but she would be wrong—hockey had a big piece of his heart too.
He was a wonderful husband and friend, a dad that both children looked up to as a role model, and later a much-admired grandfather. He was a man of kindness, honesty, integrity, humility, and most importantly, a man of God. He will be sorely missed as he takes his final journey into Eternity.
From the words of Lisa Hartley, Celebrant, at Wayne’s graveside committal ceremony:In this difficult time of transition you will let him go one more time. Let the tears fall, and the memories come. The pain is part of the love you will always hold for him, and it will soften as you gently let go of his physical body, and recognize the legacy and guiding light he will become in your future.It is abundantly clear that Wayne was loved, and will always be loved. No one here today will ever forget the impact of his life, on yours. Wayne taught a better way to be in this world. To live with compassion and kindness. To walk the path of Christ in deed, not just word. To care for and trust your fellow human, and respect them all as family.Wayne was a quiet man, whose powerful and graceful body was held together with the simple values of honesty, truth-telling, trust, and compassion. Wayne expected this of everyone and held exceptional, almost impossible standards. But mostly Wayne demanded this of himself. Extremely disciplined, he taught all a better way of being through the example of his life.You, this circle of loving people that surrounds him today, are his legacy, his intimate family. Yet this circle expands far beyond those of us who have gathered here. Students, friends, grandchildren…Wayne touched the lives of so many people with his passionate and practical love of people, the needy, the downtrodden and the brokenhearted.
And a time and purpose for every matter under heaven.
A time to be born, and a time to die;
A time to weep and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
For everything there is a season,
And a time and purpose for every matter under heaven.If you would like to honour Wayne and his family in this time of mourning, please consider a donation in his name to https://www.canuckplace.org
Please go to this link to view a song and video written for Wayne.
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Murray Hamm
Beverly, Wayne was an incredible influence not only on my life, but the life of so many of his students and players. Five of us teammates went on to become teachers/Principals, another a Architects and others went on to successful careers. He taught us hard work, discipline and the formula for a successful life, often at the expense of you and his family. When the team I coached met and defeated Winkler in the Provincial Finals, he was 1st person I thought of and called. I tried to emulate him but we all know that was impossible. Seeing the pictures of him at the end of his journey was difficult.
He will be remembered by many and will always be thought of with the greatest respect.
Bill Wilms
I first met Wayne Busse at Univ of North Dakota in 1962. I was playing hockey and he was on the Univ baseball team. He was a talented Baseball catcher. After my graduation in 1968 he was instrumental in me getting a PE teaching job in Winkler MB where he was teaching. He and I were playing coaches on the Winkler Royals Sr Men’s hockey team. I was hit illegally one shift and I looked up and there was Wayne challenging the other guy.
He was a great player and terrific teammate!
After his moving to Vancouver our sports journeys connected again. He became my assistant hockey coach with the Vancouver Jr Canucks in the Jr A hockey league. We were both sent to a World Junior Hockey coaching seminar at the 1975 World Junior Hockey Tournament in Winnipeg.
We also played 3 seasons of Vancouver Major Men’s Softball for Reimer Express. Wayne and I both played infield positions. He was a very good 2nd baseman. We both thoroughly enjoyed a trip to California for 6 exhibition games against top California teams.
Back in Manitoba high school, he was a dedicated and very demanding basketball and soccer coach. That continued in BC where he became a very highly respected and successful softball coach in the Vancouver and lower mainland area of BC
Wayne and I met for morning coffees. Boy did we ever!. Counting morning coffee meetings at least 2x per week for 40+ years indicated we met 6000+ times for coffee. Each time starting pretty close to 9:30am and lasting about 2 hrs. Several times when we noticed the lunch crowd coming in we looked at the clock and were astonished it was noon
Our routine for meeting was short. He insisted we confirm our meeting daily by phone or text. It went like this.
Texting
Me..”goin?”
Him..”what time?”
Me..”jumpin”
That was it.!!No response needed. “Jumpin” meant I was jumping into the shower and he knew exactly the time needed to meet at the restaurant. His arrival timing was always perfect.
We had a morning paper and sports, politics, religion features etc dominated our discussions. Tax increases and rising gas prices seldom concerned me. He hated them.
The most compelling and most memorable of all our coffee times was the first time Wayne shared his “coming to Christ” story. In most ways Wayne was a very private person. He found it difficult sharing emotion.
Living in a very “religious”community in Manitoba, he often witnessed many inconsistencies surrounding that “religious” life style. He told me one day he picked up a small book from a book carousel in a rural Manitoba gas station and he and after reading it he learned the difference between a religious life and a relational life with the person Jesus Christ. After finishing that little book he said he surrendered his life to Jesus Christ and began the journey of making Christ the Lord of his life. His life was never the same!
Wayne really understood the concept of Grace and Gods unconditional love and forgiveness. 1John 1:9…”if we confess our sin He is faithful and just to forgive us our sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness”
Many, many of our coffee chats centred around world conditions of sin and unrest. Being both born again believers, it was wonderful how we both filtered so much of this horrible world news through Christ living in us and the authority of the Bible. We both agreed the the Bible (Gods word) didn’t start the debate it ended the debate. We often felt Gods presence in our times together.
I am so very thankful and blessed to have had Wayne as a dear dear friend. I feel I knew his heart.His loyalty, honesty, forgiving and trust were exemplary. His patience with me was often undeserved. I texted or called him a few times over the many years to ask for forgiveness.
My last words to Wayne are that if he gets to heaven before me and after wrapping his arms around his saviour Jesus and enjoying the pleasures of heaven, wait for me to get there and anticipate one day getting my text “goin?”…what a coffee that will be!!
Fatima Mahabub Beatty
Dear Mr. Busse,
I loved my years at Bridgeview – they are arguably some of the best times of my life and probably the best of my childhood. I loved going to school and remember feeling sad when I was sick and had to stay home. School was life for me and everyone who cared for me there were my heroes and heroines. They instilled a love for learning that I carry with me today.
Do you remember when I was chosen as a Bridgeview Princess for Bridgeview Day? I wasn’t in your class at the time, nor did I know you very well (I was in grade 6), but you made a point to come see me and deliver the good news in person. My essay was one of the winners! You said that it was rare that a grade 6 made the cut. I felt special. I could be known among the Kings and Queens of Elementary – the Grade 7s. Looking back, I could see that you were impressed with me and you made a point of making a connection knowing that soon I would start my own Grade 7 journey. I thank you for that.
Do you remember the art projects you assigned us in Grade 7? I think it was every month or so, you would introduce us to a new idea and we would create our own drawing based on your instructions. Well, this subject was hard for me. I didn’t consider myself an artist. My figures were sticks. The naturally talented artists were Kevin Mindel and My Le Lai. Those kids could draw anything and it would get all the gold stars. They drew for fun – not me. Ask me the definition of Molecule and I could recite it along with Atom, but tell me to draw a three- dimensional river scene and I would be staring at piece of paper with a river of eraser marks on it.
As I struggled through these art projects, something began to click. I worked hard and put my own personality into each assignment. I began to care less about what the ‘naturals’ were doing and made each piece for myself. I measured my success by how I felt about what I did, rather than what my best friend had created (which was most times aesthetically more pleasing). I was discovering my creativity and my worth. This was also the first time I learned that I could be good at anything I set my mind to …. even drawing. At one point, one of my art projects was voted #1 by my classmates. I didn’t really enjoy this voting aspect of it, but I made it! 30+ years later I still remember. It was a moment and a life lesson I have kept near to me. You played a big part in not only teaching us skills but also providing an environment where we could experience life.
What I want you to know Mr. Busse, is that I am not the only one who has stories like this – you and your classes and lessons have affected many in countless ways. I am just a lucky one who gets to write about mine to you. Whenever I hear a conversation about Bridgeview, it’s not long before the topic of favorite teachers comes up with a mention of Mr. Busse. You treated us like equals but also let us know with clarity when we needed to be smarter and better. We had trust in you. You celebrated our achievements and spoke to us like we were special humans who had voices and something to offer. You wanted us to succeed and we knew it. You cared about our school lives and our home lives. You were a part of our little Bridgeview community for many years even though you didn’t live there. You still are.
These are all things I remember about you and the experience I had in your class so I wanted you to know. I carry this in my heart and will share these stories with my kids as they go through their own elementary experiences (I have two daughters, Samah age 6 and Janvie, age 4).
It was a true blessing to have been taught by you and to know you. Childhood memories and relationships are special and strong. There is something never-ending about the experiences we have in childhood that carry us through life…. they remind us of wonder, hope and the innocence that we need. I am thinking about you and holding space in my heart for you as that little girl in your grade 7 class who looked up to you, learned from you, tried hard for you and was your friend.
I wish you blessed days in peace with your family. Love you, Mr. Busse….until we meet again.
Always,
Fatima Mahabub Beatty
Kyle Liu
I’ve had the privilege of knowing the Busse family for over 45 years of my life. They even took me into their home and treated me as one of their own for over two years in my late teens / early adult life. I happily and lovingly refer to Bev and Wayne as “Mom and Dad” as well as Mark and Terri as my brother and sister.
When I think about Wayne Busse, a barrage of memories flood my mind. They are not in any sensible or chronological order.
As I try to sort them out in my mind, more memories would just pop into my head. Usually very fragmented. Sometimes it was something he said, like calling Mark a donkey when he just about lit himself on fire when we were doing a backyard burn. Sometimes it was something he would do that was completely spontaneous, like the time he had to drive Terri to a soccer game. He was keeping an eye on the time from the clock in the kitchen. It wasn’t until Terri came running downstairs and yelled, “Dad! We gotta GO!” that he realized the clock in the kitchen had stopped working. At which point he jumped out of his recliner, ran into the kitchen, pulled the clock off the wall, gave it a shake and looked up at the rest of us wide eyed with a grin and yelled, “We’re late!” and smashed the clock on the kitchen floor before running out the door to start the car, leaving us in surprised laughter.
As all these random memories enter my mind, I find myself either smiling, chuckling or laughing to myself at all of them.
Dad was probably the most easy going, and quirky man I ever knew.
He was also the most generous, grounded, and genuine man I ever knew.
We never had to question his intent or motive about anything he said or did. We just knew without question that anything he said or did was for the benefit of the family.
One of Dad’s most endearing qualities is how he would explain or teach us something. It may be what drew him to become an educator.
It could be explaining a passage out of the Bible, or as simple as chopping wood.
His demeanour would change. His eyes would light up. He would become more animated, more excited when he spoke. It was like he just learned something new and couldn’t wait to share his new found knowledge with you.
His energy would draw you in and you couldn’t help but become engaged in what he had to say.
Dad had other lessons that he taught without words.
Do your best and be yourself.
Don’t be concerned about what the other guy has.
Do things because it’s the right thing to do.
Help and be generous with others, and never ask for anything in return.
Don’t look for credit or accolades for your good deeds or achievements.
Don’t hold grudges.
Love your family unconditionally.
This is a very condensed list, as anyone who knew Wayne could add lessons that would make the list go for days.
Dad, I am and will forever be grateful that you were my father figure, and teacher in life.
I love you.
I will miss you dearly.
Kyle.
Matt Porter
Wayne was my Uncle. We lived a few provinces apart my whole life. We didn’t get to see each other often. When we did though, it was always memorable and meaningful. I always left learning something new or laughing the ride home thinking about something he said. I cherish those memories.
My love and condolences to everyone in his extended family. I know we will find him amongst the many things he taught us. Really happy to have been in his team.
Zohaib
Dear Mr.Busse thank you for making my childhood such an amazing time where I would always come over and play with the dogs and hangout with you and Ms.Busse. The best memories were with you and family. I’ve grown to be a 30 year old Man and have always loved you and Ms. Busse as my own family. My heart breaks to see you leave I will always remember you and think about you till the day I leave this world . I will always be kind and try to be as amazing as you and hope one day I can try to be the way you were. Thank you for always showing love and being such a positive great human being. Your a true Angel ❤️🙏🏼
Claudio
I never had the opportunity to spend time with Wayne, but I have had the greatest pleasure of becoming friends with Mark.
They say the biggest compliment for a parent is the character of the children they raised. Having gotten to know Mark over the years, then I can only imagine the pride Wayne must’ve felt as well as the love he felt in return.
My deepest condolences for the entire extended family and take comfort at least that Wayne is no longer feeling any pain.
Rod Ross
I love your son…so I know I would have loved getting to know you as well Wayne.
You did a good job on Mark and he has spoken about what you taught him.
I bless your memory!
Shanon
Mr. Busse was an amazing teacher! It has been 30 years and I can still remember him teaching us from the edge of his desk. My condolences to his family and friends, and those who had the pleasure to learn from him.
Collin Wooldridge
RIP, one of the best teachers I ever had. He was the one that got me interested in computers which lead to my career in IT. My condolences to his friends and family.
Dale Harder
Thanks Mark for sharing that!
So sorry for your loss! The comments were not surprising as we all knew your dad was a very exceptional man hey!!
I was blessed to have known him and even up till recently I’d call him for very long chats to catch up on better times.
I’ll always remember our last breakfast you, me and dad shared downtown Vancouver a few years back and after we just happened to walk down Seymour (I think🤔) and couldn’t help seeing all the homeless on the sidewalks. Remember, I even recorded some video on my phone, to which I believe your dad gave me the age old ‘donkey’ comment 😬😬😂
I also remember way back when us three would be going somewhere together in his Mazda truck (probably Costco😂) and without you noticing what you were doing, you were chomping gum right behind him as he drove. Suddenly out of nowhere he’d snap from the irritation being unbearable and raise his voice loud and crystal clear to stop the annoying sounds!! Absolutely hilarious!! Then a bit later I’d purposefully start smacking gum to see if I could get him to snap again to which we both quickly learned….mission accomplished😬👏😂😂 We both laughed and rightly so got the ‘donkey’ comment!😏😏😂
A great man indeed, and I was blessed with him as a father in law for that period and a man to look up to as a role model for all my life.
Irshad Khan
My deepest condolences to the family. Mr. Busse was my teacher in grade 6 and 7 and he had such an impact on my life. I still remember the wonderful anecdotes and stories he would tell and try and relate school work to real life problems. We spent hours after class talking sports and I knew he was a special man when his students from many years earlier would drop by for a visit. I wish I would have taken more opportunities to do so myself over the years. Thank you for your service you helped an entire generation navigate school/life and you had so much patience for everyone. You will be remembered, God Bless.
Donna Hull
Dear “family”,
You and Wayne welcomed me into the family many, many years ago when I was first dating Mark, and then later married him. Even though we were too young to get married, and thus, did not last as a couple, I feel blessed that I got to stay part of the family for almost 35 years…You aren’t rid of me yet!
Wayne was always someone who I knew cared about me and would be there for me in times of need. I wonder how many of us he loaned money to without batting an eye? And how many of us he gave advice to and helped guide us and kept us on the right path?
When I think of Wayne, I recall him singing the first few words of “The Star Spangled Banner” at random times and for not reason, as well as how he would practice his golf swing by checking his reflection in the sliding glass door. I don’t know when he last actually DID golf….but he was ready! I loved Wayne’s quirky sense of humour and how he was always his unique self.
I also remember going out for Dim Sun for Wayne’s birthday. He hated it and barely ate…treated the rest of us and then would take himself to McDonald’s. Perhaps THAT was his treat to himself? Caring for his family and being a good sport, while giving himself permission to go enjoy a yearly Mickie D’s?
Wayne was a wonderful man and he is missed by all. As everyone else has said, I have the utmost respect for Wayne and will remember him always.
Don Klassen
my condolences to the Busse family……Wayne and I connected for one year of high school BB in Winkler, he the young coach we all looked up to and me in grade 12. He coached that team of wannabes to its first ever zone championship that year. I never had another chance to meet him in person, but that one year left a memorable impression. It was great to see the video remembering a life well lived! good to know we’ll meet again in heaven one day.
Robin Jackman
When I went to high school in Winkler and played for Mr. Busse’s teams, I realized what meant to practice and play hard. He taught me more than I could ever put on paper, including a strong work ethic, fairness, patience and humility. To this day I remember specific instances of how he helped me grow as an athlete and a person.