David Charles Brusky, age 76 fondly known as Dave, PawPaw, or Papa Dave, was a beacon of compassion and generosity. Born on October 2, 1948, in Dover, New Jersey, David left a profound and irreplaceable impact on all who knew him. He passed away on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at the Ottumwa Regional Health Center.
A loving and thoughtful man, David lived his life with a boundless spirit of kindness and dedication, leaving an indelible legacy of love and service. David’s journey led him from his birthplace in New Jersey to Arizona and ultimately to Ottumwa, Iowa, where he retired from Cargil’s meatpacking business in 2013. Throughout his life, David, an avid fisherman and hunter, found joy in the thrill of video games and the excitement of NASCAR and football. But it was in the kitchen where David’s true passion came alive. Despite his diverse interests, what mattered most to David was family, whether by blood or chosen. His love extended to his beagles, Sally, Sadie, and Molly, and his service in the Navy demonstrated his unwavering desire to make the world a better place.
David is survived by his grandchildren Tamaya Guzman-Steele and Dakota Phillips, his brother, John Brusky, and his great-grandchildren Domanik, Isabella, Alixander, and Sylas Steele. His nephew, Steven Syversten, and his cherished friends and roommates, Lacie Tingley, Savannah Weyer, Gerald Adler, and their daughter Dorothy, also mourn his loss. David was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie Hayden, his daughter, Jolie Shaw, his parents, John and Martha Brusky, his brother Frank Brusky, and his sister Ruth Syversten.
David was a giver and a savior, a man whose love knew no bounds. We will remember him not just for his generosity, but for the way his laughter filled a room, his life lessons taught over a shared meal, and the quiet strength he displayed every day. David’s memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those he touched, a testament to a life well-lived. David has been cremated per his wishes, and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be mailed to Tamaya Guzman, 215 East 1st St., Pella, Iowa 50219 in David’s name. Sinnott Funeral Home in Ottumwa is assisting with arrangements.
