Helmut W. Busse

In the early hours of June 22, 2022, Helmut W. Busse of Knoxville, Tennessee was called home by the Lord. Though his body was tired, his spirit was grateful for the 85 years he had on earth, and he was ready when his time came to say goodbye. Helmut is survived by his wife of 60 years Renee (Ruminski) Busse; son and daughter-in-law Gary and Kimmy (Stritzl) Busse; daughter and son-in-law Arlene and Will McCarthy; and grandchildren Trista and Liam. Helmut was full of life and he lived on his own terms until his last day. There was never a dull moment with Helmut, because he believed in wholeheartedly saying yes to every adventure, big and small. He said yes to a life of hard work and chasing big dreams. He said yes to traveling, exploring, and trying new ideas. And he was equally enthusiastic about each invitation to the important moments in Trista and Liam’s lives- to soccer games, piano recitals, days by the pool, and birthday dinners. He encouraged his children and grandchildren to seize every day and every opportunity, just as he had. Helmut immigrated from Germany to Canada at the age of 20. He was bold and brave, and determined to conquer the world and fulfill his ambition. In February of 1962, he asked a beautiful woman to dance in Toronto. That first night of dancing to their favorite Polish songs was the start of an enviable love story that lasted sixty years. While raising his family, he built a successful career as a tool and die maker and started his own company, which he later sold. He then continued to work with the company until he retired. Helmut was selfless and generous, often putting the needs of others before himself. He loved to share his wisdom, his life experiences, and a good joke. He loved quality time with his family, old cowboy movies, and caring for his home and garden. To his family, he will be remembered as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and father-in-law who was full of enthusiasm, determination and encouragement. To his friends, he will be remembered as generous and caring, a lively dinner companion, and a fierce card player. And to everyone he met along the way, including the nurses that cared for him in his final moments, he was a kind listener with a twinkle in his eye and a heart of gold. Helmut will be remembered by the way that he loved the people in his life and the way he made them feel in his presence. Helmut was a long-time member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, where a Celebration of Life will be held on July 9th at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Helmut’s honor to East TN Children’s hospital. Online condolences may be sent to rosefuneraltn.com. The family wishes to express their heart felt gratitude to caring nurses and staff at Caris and Morning Pointe assisted living, St. John’s Lutheran church especially Pastor Amy Figg and Pastor John Tirro, as well as the many friends and family who continue to support them at this time. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. ~2 Timothy 7-8

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Helmut W. Busse

October 26, 1936 - June 22, 2022