Michael Bussink

Michael Bussink of Odenton, MD, passed away on Monday, July 2, 2012 at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD, at the age of 66. Mike was born on December 27, 1945 in Washington, D.C.

Mike is survived by his wife, Betty; three children, B.J. (Rachel) Bussink, Michelle (Tom) Chervenak and Jacki (Steve) Mutziger; nine grandchildren, Alec, Brooke, Paige and Michael Bussink, Anya and Alli Chervenak, Jack, Abby and Katie Mutziger and his sister, Kay Clark. He was preceded in death by his brother, Jack Bussink.

Mike grew up in Washington, D.C., Lewisdale and Hyattsville, MD. His parents instilled in him a belief in a cause and dedication to that cause. He served in the Army in Vietnam. He married the love of his life, Betty Bussink, on October 5, 1968. They raised a wonderful family in Hyattsville, MD with great neighbors.

He was caring, loving and dedicated to everyone he met. He touched people in a special way and could always raise your spirits. He was there for many in their success and big hearted for everyone's challenge.

Mike enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, family and friends. He loved golf and really enjoyed spending time at the beach with family and friends. He was a man of strong character. He made an impact in the lives of many, especially children, through coaching, encouragement, and overall just making each individual feel special.

His legacy and service to his Lord was through serving his community. He touched many lives through St. Mary's , St. Bernard's, CYO, School of the Incarnation, Knights of Columbus and his beloved DeMatha. Mike believed most strongly in DeMatha High School and the development of young men with character. Wanting his own son to attend DeMatha High School he worked four jobs at one time to enable his son to attend this tremendous establishment. Working ever so hard, he never missed his children's games, important events and even attending those of others in support of them.

Mike was the President of the Alumni Association and served with many fine men passionately throughout his life. He served the DeMatha community for many years and was inducted into the DeMatha Hall of Fame in 2011 earning the Lou Amico Service Award. A scholarship fund has been established in his name for young men who otherwise would not have the chance to attend.

The family will receive friends at Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory, P.A. 1411 Annapolis Road, Odenton, MD 21113 on Wednesday, July 11, 2012 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at Our Lady of the Fields Roman Catholic Church, 1070 Cecil Avenue, South, Millersville, MD 21108 on Thursday, July 12, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. An Interment Service will be held at Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Crownsville, MD.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: The Mike Bussink Scholarship Fund c/o DeMatha High School 4313 Madison Street, Hyattsville, MD 20781 (240)764-2222.