Leroy Busker

Leroy (Pete) Henry Busker, 97, of Rockton, Illinois, passed away peacefully on June 23rd. He was born on April 23rd, 1929, in South Beloit, Wisconsin to Henry Busker and Iris Valeria Busker.

Leroy graduated with his Bachelor's of Science Degree from Northwestern University in Electrical Engineering in 1953. He was inducted into the Army in the summer of 1953, and served for two years at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. After his honorable discharge he moved back to Beloit, Wisconsin where he began a career in research on the physics of paper making. He held numerous patents, was instrumental in the development of the Extended Nip Press and was awarded the Gunnar Nicholson Gold Medal Award in 2002 for his contributions to the paper industry.

On December 26th, 1953, Leroy married Diane Kathleen Rippie. Their relationship was defined by a loving partnership and devotion to each other. Together, they built a life rich in adventure, grounded in love, and dedicated to one another.

Leroy enjoyed an active life, full of hobbies including hours spent in his greenhouse, beekeeping, golf, woodworking, fishing and sailing. He started a wildflower seed business in 1969 which brought him great joy. He was dedicated to his family, spending many hours playing badminton, euchre and croquet and planning annual family camping trips. He was successful and respected in his work, and adored by his children and grandchildren. He had a kind nature, surpassed only by his big heart.

He is survived by his sister, Bertha Stogsdill; his four daughters, Pamela, Susan, Nancy (Charlie), and Ann (Mark); his incredible grandchildren, David, Jennifer, Rachel, Sara, Shawn, Laura, Emily, and their spouses; and his 14 wonderful great grandchildren.

In addition to his wife Diane and his parents Henry and Iris, he was preceded in death by his sister Eleanor Sudds.

He will be truly missed but never forgotten by his family and friends.

A Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Saturday, August 22, 2026 in the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Rock Valley Building, 329 School St., Rockton, IL.