Delvan Bushnell

Delvan Bushnell, age 84, of Ulysses, Kansas died Wednesday, July 27, 2016 at St. Catherine Hospital in Garden City, Kansas. He was born July 6, 1932 in Speed, Kansas, the son of George William and Effie Lodora (Pool) Bushnell.

Delvan was a rover and rambler in his younger days before joining the United States Navy in 1951. He served until 1955 as a Boilerman on a destroyer ship during the Korean War, where he sailed around the world. After his honorable discharge, he returned to Speed, Kansas and owned and operated a sand and gravel business. Delvan also operated the local gas station. Delvan married Mary Lou Horn, his best friend and the love of his life, on August 30, 1957 in Phillipsburg, Kansas. In 1968, he moved to Ulysses and managed J-J Oil Company for over 26 years. His family joined him in April 1969. After retirement, he and Mary loved traveling. They took their RV and went several places in the United States including Colorado every year. Delvan enjoyed attending auctions and dog races, playing Keno, watching NASCAR, and tending their flower gardens. He continued the upkeep on the family farm until a few years ago. However, family was the most important thing in Delvan’s life. He enjoyed visits with his kids, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a member of Dexter D. Harbour American Legion Post #79.

He is survived by his wife, Mary of their home; children, Mary Jean Bushnell and husband Bill Wright of Overland Park, Kansas, George William Bushnell and wife Jeannie of Ulysses, Kansas, David Lee Bushnell and wife Loretta of Houston, Texas, Marla Jane and husband Johnnie Lira of Ulysses, Kansas, Duane Earl Bushnell and wife Kate of Gilbert, Arizona; sister, Sheryl Bushnell of Overland Park, Kansas; sister-in-law, Millie Bushnell of Auburn, Washington; eight grandchildren, Michael Bushnell, Brandi Bushnell Savoy, Kory Lira, Matthew Bushnell, Lesha Doyle, Brittany Bushnell, Jason Bushnell, and Natalie Bushnell; and nine great-grandchildren.

Delvan is preceded in death by his parents; and three brothers, Alden, Willie and Donald Bushnell.

Memorial service will be Saturday, July 30, 2016 at 2:00 PM at the Oasis Church in Ulysses with Pastor Kris Humphrey officiating. Inurnment is currently scheduled for late afternoon on Saturday, September 3, 2016 at Belmont Cemetery near Speed, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be given to Du-Good Events in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave, Ulysses, KS 67880.