It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dennis Robert Busby, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who departed this life peacefully on May 29, 2026, at the age of 77. Born on February 15, 1949, in Des Moines, Iowa, Dennis, affectionately known as "Denny" to family and friends, was the cherished son of the late Robert and Ruth Busby.
Denny's early life was spent in Mitchellville, where he cultivated a love for the simple joys that would define his character throughout his life. A graduate of Southeast Polk High School in 1967, Denny pursued further education at Hawkeye Community College and Grand View College, always eager to expand his knowledge and skills.
Answering the call to serve his country, Denny dedicated four years of his life to the United States Army, a commitment that demonstrated his unwavering sense of duty and patriotism. Upon returning to civilian life, Denny embarked on a career with John Deere in Waterloo, where he honed his skills and built lasting relationships. His journey eventually led him to the Des Moines area, where he contributed his expertise to Two Rivers Lift and Equipment until his well-earned retirement.
Denny's life was rich with love and laughter, underscored by his marriage to Lynda Winter on August 22, 1981, a union that was sadly cut short by her passing. However, love found Denny once more when he married Linda Fitzgerald Forgy on August 17, 1996. Together, they shared 29 wonderful years, creating a blended family that was the center of Denny’s world.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Linda Busby; his stepsons, Keith (Dawn) Johnson, Scott (Mandi) Johnson, Mark (Jessica) Forgy, and Matt (Jaime) Forgy; and his siblings, sister Candy (Mark) Cooper, and brother Jeff (Cassie) Busby. Denny was a proud grandfather to 10 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart. His legacy also lives on through numerous nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of friends who were touched by his kindness and humility.
Denny was a man of simple pleasures, finding joy in the tranquility of fishing and the camaraderie of sharing those moments with his grandchildren and best friends at the lake. A skilled woodworker, Denny delighted in crafting birdhouses, which he sold at the local farmers market, sharing his creations with the community he loved.
Though Denny lived a life marked by frugality and simplicity, his generosity of spirit was boundless. He was a man who found beauty in the everyday and had a remarkable ability to make those around him feel valued and loved. His quiet strength and gentle nature left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Denny was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Lynda, and his brother Randy Busby. While we mourn his passing, we find solace in knowing that he is reunited with them, watching over us with love.
A celebration of Denny's life will be held on July 18, 2026, at 3:00 PM at the Ankeny Funeral Home, with a visitation starting at 2 pm. Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Denny are invited to join us in remembering and honoring a remarkable man whose legacy will forever be cherished in our hearts.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Denny's name, as a tribute to his generous spirit and the life he led filled with love and kindness.
