Rosemary Anne Busch (Spear) passed peacefully in her home surrounded by family and friends on Sunday, April 21, 2024. She leaves behind a legacy of adventure, service, and compassion.
Born in Plymouth, England, to Julian and Mary Spear (Grimes), Rosemary developed a lifelong love of the sea before immigrating to Canada in 1976 with her family at 19 years old. Her journey led her to Queen's University where she studied physiotherapy and made friendships that lasted her lifetime.
In 1984, Rosemary married her devoted husband Jim Busch in Fort Frances, ON. After convincing Jim to also study physiotherapy, they both moved to Sudbury, ON to start a family and build Sudbury Physio Centre, a series of 5 clinics and the first private physiotherapy practice north of Barrie.
A natural leader and volunteer, Rosemary found purpose in service to others. She earned the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh award, presented by the Queen Mother; supported many local charities and individuals through her business; and volunteered tirelessly in retirement to feed and support many, even through the challenges of a pandemic.
Rosemary's impact was recognized with many entrepreneurial and business leadership awards throughout her career. Her initiative remained strong in retirement and she was honoured by Meals on Wheels as Volunteer of the Year, 2019, and as Sudbury's Neighbour of the Year, 2021. Many family and friends have been surprised to learn of her awards as she never publicly advertised them.
Perhaps Rosemary's most enduring legacy lies in the countless lives she touched as a friend, neighbour, and beacon of kindness. Whether she was organizing neighbourhood social groups, finding bedding and supplies for the elderly while travelling in India, walking the Caminos with fellow pilgrims, or sharing her homemade marmalade with a friend, her presence illuminated the lives of many around her.
Rosemary will be deeply missed by her whole family. Including her dear husband, Jim; children, Christopher (Kelly) and Jessica (Eric); granddaughters Emily and Claire; her sisters, Diana (Stephen) and Patricia (Martin); and her nieces and nephews Cassandra, Benjamin, Julian, Olivia, and Meredith. All of whom she loved, deeply.
Though she has embarked on her final journey, Rosemary's spirit will remain a guiding light to those who knew her.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate Rosemary’s life together on May 11th, 11:00 am at the Idylwylde Golf and Country Club. Instead of flowers, please consider a donation in Rosemary's name to the Northern Cancer Foundation or Meals on Wheels. Arrangements entrusted to Jackson & Barnard Funeral Home. For donations or messages of condolence www.lougheedfuneralhomes.com.