Inez Bernice Busch

Inez Bernice Busch, age 95, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Inez was born on April 10, 1930, in Dow City, Iowa, to Mary Maude Turner and Fred Stephenson. She grew up in Crawford County, where she married Vernon John Busch. Together, they made their home in Des Moines, Iowa, where they built a beautiful life full of love, family, and laughter.

Inez was known for her kindness, humor, and wit. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and friend. Her family and friends will always remember her for her heart of gold and her ability to make everyone feel welcome and part of her family.

Those who knew Inez will never forget her wonderful sense of humor. She loved to laugh and make others laugh — whether it was enjoying her burnt breakfast toast (insisting it was done to perfection) or pulling small pranks that will live on indefinitely.
Her family will forever smile remembering her distinct giggle and warm, welcoming spirit. She showed everyone that joy and laughter could be found at any age.

Inez is survived by her daughters, Becky Raleigh (Bryant) and Gayle Wilkinson (Gary), along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, John; her son, Michael; two brothers; five sisters; two grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date in the coming spring. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Vernon John Busch. Family and friends are invited to celebrate her life and share stories in her honor.

The family wishes to thank Hamilton’s Funeral Home, Des Moines Fire & Rescue Station 1, and Downtown Methodist Hospital for their compassionate care and support.

Her love, laughter, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

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