Eric Michael Buschman

Eric Michael Buschman left this world far too soon on October 7, 2025. While his time with us was cut short, the mark he left on everyone who crossed his path will be felt for years to come. Eric had a rare gift—the kindest, most compassionate soul, always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. Whether it was buying food for a homeless person in the cold, helping a stranded motorist, or inviting a coworker without family to join him for Christmas, Easter, or any other occasion, Eric’s heart was as big as his smile.

From an early age, Eric knew his purpose in life. At just three or four years old, he told his mother, "God told me in heaven that He put me on this world to make people laugh." And indeed, he did. Eric's infectious laugh, quick wit, and magnetic personality made him a beloved figure wherever he went. Whether on the playground as a child or in his professional life as an adult, people were drawn to his warmth and charisma. His loyalty to his family and friends was unwavering, always standing up for those he loved with fierce devotion.

Eric’s love for the outdoors was boundless. He found peace in nature, from pausing to admire a breathtaking sunset to hiking in the mountains. He traveled widely—through the heart of the Midwest, across the shores of England and Ireland (where he proposed to Kasey), and fighting waves in the ocean—but his happiest moments were always spent outdoors. Eric was an aspiring hunter, both with a rifle and a bow, and his greatest adventure was a trip to Tennessee where he bagged a 285-pound boar. His connection to nature was as deep as his love for life itself.

Eric’s love of music started at a young age, learning to play viola in 5th grade and continued playing through high school. He easily transferred those skills to the guitar. Eric could play anything on his guitars —from the iconic sounds of Kansas to the gritty melodies of Colter Wall and even the heavy riffs of Lorna Shore. Whether he was strumming to a familiar tune or jamming to something new, or joining a mosh pit at a concert, music was always in the background. His true joy was driving his Mini Cooper with the windows down and the sunroof open, the wind and sun on his face and his favorite songs filling the air.

Eric is survived by his loving mother and father, Trina Gordon Buschman and David Buschman, his brother Bradley Buschman, sister-in-law Kilie Buschman, his niece Abigail Buschman, his nephew Luke Buschman, as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He was looking forward to starting his life with his fiancée, Kasey Coke and her family, and his dog Bow. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Charles Robert Gordon, Sandra Lee Erbele, Mary Janice Buschman, and Charles Raymond Buschman. His passing leaves a hole in the hearts of those who knew him, but his legacy of kindness, loyalty, laughter, and love will live on. His spirit will forever be with us—in every sunset, every song, and every shared laugh. Like a comet, Eric blazed through life—brilliant, shining, intense, but all too fleeting.

In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to a charity of your choice in Eric’s name or to one of his favorite charities he supported; The Kentucky Humane Society, Wounded Warriors Project, or The Colorado Wolf and Wild Life Center.

Visitation will be held at Arch L. Heady & Son-Cralle Funeral Home & Cremation Services, located at 2428 Frankfort Ave, Louisville, Kentucky, 40206, on October 12, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

The funeral service will take place at the same venue on October 13, 2025, starting at 11:00 am.

A graveside service will follow at Cave Hill Cemetery & Arboretum, 701 Baxter Ave, Louisville, Kentucky, 40204, on October 13, 2025, at 12:00 pm.