David Bushey Obituary

David Bushey

David Don Bushey passed from this life Monday, February 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born February 11, 1948, in Findlay to Mervin and Rachael (Peters) Bushey. A proud graduate of North Baltimore High School, class of 1966, Dave soon began his career with the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT).

In 1968, he was drafted into the U.S. Army to serve in the Vietnam War. Trained as a field medic for Alpha Company, 2nd Platoon, Americal Division, Dave was deployed to Nui Hoc. While in Vietnam, he was wounded in action and awarded numerous military honors, including the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Expert Marksman Badge, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, RVN Gallantry Cross, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Combat Medical Badge. Many veterans have expressed their deep gratitude, crediting Dave's skill and dedication as a medic for saving their lives.

After his service, Dave returned to ODOT, where he dedicated 40 years of hard work before retiring as a district superintendent.

On March 28, 1970, he married the love of his life, Jaimye Dean, and together they shared 54 wonderful years. They were blessed with three children and six grandchildren, forming a close-knit family that meant everything to Dave. He made it a priority to plan an annual family vacation, a cherished tradition that continues to this day. His favorite destinations included Charleston, South Carolina, and the oceanfront beaches of Hilton Head Island and Nag's Head, where he loved spending time with his family and watching the sunrise and sunset over the water.

For over 25 years, Dave and Jaimye also enjoyed attending Americal Division reunions across the country, reconnecting with fellow veterans and honoring their shared history.

A man of deep faith, Dave was a baptized member of North Baltimore Church of Christ. He was also a proud member of American Legion Post No. 539 and Fraternal Order of Eagles No. 2633.

Dave is survived by his beloved wife, Jaimye; and their children, Amanda (Dan) Jacobs of Van Buren, Jason (Diana) Bushey of Cicero, Indiana, and Parker (Adrianna) Bushey of Royal Oak, Michigan. He was a devoted grandfather to Jameson (Jessica) Jacobs, Cassadie Jacobs, Lily Bushey, Allie Bushey, and Bennett David Bushey. He is also survived by his sister, Cherie Seiler; brothers-in-law, Robert Hamlin and Jeff (Jill) Dean; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mervin and Rachael Bushey; and sisters, Mae Bushey, Sandra Hamlin, and Jeanne Sieber. He was also preceded by his in-laws, Richard Seiler, Howard Sieber, and James and Betty Lou Dean; as well as his beloved granddaughter, Paige Lineay Jacobs.

Fulfilling Dave's final wish, he passed peacefully at home, surrounded by love. His family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Heartland Hospice nurses, family, and friends who provided care and comfort during his final days.

Visitation will be at SMITH-CRATES FUNERAL HOME, North Baltimore, on Sunday, February 9, from 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM, and again on Monday, February 10, from 10-11 a.m., with the funeral service immediately following at 11 a.m. He will be laid to rest in New Maplewood Cemetery, North Baltimore, where full military rites will be conducted by North Baltimore American Legion Post 539.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Wood County Humane Society, International Rett Syndrome Foundation, or Samaritan's Purse, which were dear to Dave's heart.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.smithcrates.com.