Boyd Bushman

Boyd B Bushman died August 7, 2014 in Tucson, AZ surrounded by his family. Boyd was born 20 July 1936 in Globe, Arizona to Mitchell S. and Glenda Porter Bushman. He was raised in Show Low, Arizona and graduated from Snowflake Union High school. His early interest in science was nurtured by his mother Glenda, George A. Smith, and David A. Butler. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University- majoring in both math and physics. Boyd also earned an MBA from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. From an early age Boyd was blessed with curiosity, optimism, and a keen eye to see beyond the surface of what might appear ordinary to others. He drew heavily from the wonders of the Creator and loved sharing his discoveries with people who were prepared to be amazed. Professionally he preferred to introduce himself as a Senior Scientist, yet this understated the accomplishments of a man who contributed so much to the defense and security of our nation. Bushman's career spanned over forty years and included work with defense contractors Hughes Aircraft, General Dynamics, Texas Instruments, and Lockheed Martin. Some of his accomplishments included being on the development team of the Stinger Missile, the F16 Fighter, as well as many other advanced weapons and propulsion systems. At the time of his retirement in 2000, Bushman had 28 patents in his name, many of which contained classified technologies. Boyd Bushman was gifted with the capacity of making everyone around him feel important and valuable. He did this by demonstrating a genuine interest in the individual, and by divining their qualities and traits with an ability so uncanny that it was both disarming and endearing. Boyd's gift of making others feel loved and of great worth was showered abundantly upon his children who love and adore him as their father in mutual bonds that extend throughout eternity. Boyd adored his wife, Mary Ellen, who survives him. His children were each prized. Kym (Larry) Whitecar, KaLynn (Mark) Herpel, Tracy (Steve) Portz, Jennifer (Jon deceased) Caruso, Bryan (Christina) Bushman, and Joshua (Karen) Bushman; as well as 20 grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Additionally, he leaves two cherished sisters Patty (Fred) Nielson, and Janene (Larry) Richins. He is preceded in death by his parents, Mitchell and Glenda Bushman; 2 brothers, Derral Porter Bushman, and Warren Mitchell Bushman; as well as a precious grandson, Jared Hart, and a loving son-in-law, Jon Caruso. The funeral service for Boyd will begin 2:00 P.M., August 9, 2014 at Owens Livingston Mortuary - White Mountain Chapel, 320 N. 9th Street in Show Low with a visitation 1 hour prior. Interment will follow at the Show Low Cemetery.