Robert C. Buschke

Dec. 9, 1934 – Dec. 1, 2024

Robert Claude Buschke passed away on Sunday, December 1st at his home in Hardman surrounded by loved ones.  He was a week shy of his 90th birthday.

Bob was born December 9, 1934 in Heppner, Oregon to Claude and Margaret (Beckett) Buschke.  He was baptized at a young age at the local Episcopal Church.  Bob grew up in Heppner and attended school there until graduating.

In 1960, Bob married the love of his life, Bonnie June Hannan.  They were married for 64 years and she was with him right up until the end.

The first job Bob had (besides helping his dad on the Ranch) was logging for Kinzua Logging Company.  Later, he went on to work as a heavy equipment operator for the 701.The family moved to Maupin and ran cattle down by the Deschutes River for 10 years for Shirley Ruggs.

After that, the family moved back to Heppner where Bob worked as a mechanic for Finnley Butte Land Fill.  As much as Bob loved working with cattle and his heavy construction work;  he and Bonnie decided it was time for retirement and they moved to Hardman where he lived until his passing.

Robert is survived by his loving wife Bonnie, numerous nieces and nephews; godchildren Amber, Larissa, Kacie and Haven; and his dog Elsa.  He is preceded in death by his brother, Jerry; and his two sons Bryon and Marty.

A graveside service took place on Monday December 9th at the Heppner Masonic Cemetery in Heppner, Oregon.  To honor Bob's commitments to his country and community, military honors and Elks rites were conducted by Army Funeral Honors team as well as the Elks Lodge #358 of Heppner.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Oregon Humane Society.

Sweeney Payton Mortuary has been entrusted with the arrangements.  Please leave your condolence messages for the family below.