Ardeth Busbey

June 27, 1930 – November 6, 2024

Our loving Mom and Grandma, Ardeth Mae (Olson) Busbey went home to be with the Lord on November 6, 2024. She was 94 years old. She passed away peacefully in her sleep at the Palmer Veteran and Pioneer Home.

Ardeth was born on June 27, 1930 in Spirit Lake, Iowa to Floyd and Leora Olson. During her childhood the family moved to Brainerd, Minnesota and settled near South Long Lake where they were farmers.

In 1950 Ardeth married Harley Busbey. They bought a farm and started building a successful dairy herd. Daughter, Wanda and son, Dale were born during that time.

After some setbacks with the farm, Harley and Ardeth surprised both of their families by announcing that they were selling the farm and moving to Alaska where Harley had visited as a young man. They moved to Alaska in 1962 and settled in Palmer. Their sons, Lyle and Wayne, were added to the family in Palmer.

For many years Ardeth was a dedicated homemaker. She was also the family taxi cab – driving the kids to all their sports practices, and other activities. She was the official scorekeeper at many of her son’s Little League games.

In 1973 Harley was in a tragic plane accident where he lost his life. Ardeth went to work to support her family. She worked at Swanson School as a Teacher Aide and at several other local businesses. Then she worked at the Palmer Pioneer Home as a Rec Aide and Accountant for 16 years before retiring.

Ardeth’s faith in God was an important part of her life. She was a great example to her family and others of a true godly woman. She and Harley attended several local churches including the Church of God, the United Presbyterian Church, and Lazy Mountain Bible Church where she often played the piano at church and other gatherings. Her strong faith carried her through the difficult days after Harley passed away and after Wayne suffered a handicapping injury.

Ardeth’s family is comforted knowing that she is reunited in heaven today with her husband and her son, Wayne and with all her Busbey and Olson family members.

Ardeth is survived by her children: Wanda Busbey Haken (Milt), Lyle Busbey (Cathy), and Dale Busbey. She is also survived by her 6 Grandchildren: Michael Busbey (Donielle), Walker Haken (Ashten), Byron Haken (Kitia), Trevor Haken, Abriana Busbey, and Aleah Busbey (Patrick). She was blessed to also have 5 great grandchildren who brought her a lot of joy.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 16 at Lazy Mountain Bible Church in Palmer. Viewing at 1:30, Service at 2:00, followed by a reception. Cards may be sent to the family at 3035 S. Marth Rd, Palmer, AK 99645