Doris M. Bussema

* * Due to the ongoing construction on Rt. 30, click here for an alternate route to the funeral home if you are coming from the West: Alternate Route

Doris Marie Bussema, aged 96, went to her heavenly home on September 23, 2024 in Chicago, IL. Born on July 18, 1928, in Chicago, Doris was known for her warm hospitality and the love she expressed through her baking and cooking.  She cherished extensive travels with her beloved husband, Carl, with whom she shared more than 50 joyful years.  Doris leaves behind a loving family.  Her legacy continues through her children, Carl and Helen Bussema, Diane and Peter Spoelhof, Susan Vellekoop and friend Steve Pietras.  Doris was a proud grandmother to Sara (Mike) Mee, Carl (Steph) Bussema III, John Bussema, Ryan (Rebekah) Spoelhof, Mark Spoelhof, David Spoelhof, Kurt (Sara) Vellekoop, and Arie Vellekoop; She was also blessed with 10 great-grandchildren: Wyatt, Bear, Leo, Johan, Ronin, Anders, Rhys, Diederik, Evan, and Lillian.  Doris is survived by her brother Martin (Norma) Wondaal and brother-in-law George Schaaf.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl, and sisters Evelyn Laning, Janet Roelfsema Buikema, Betty Alexander, June Schaaf, and brother Harold “Mike” Wondaal. Contributions in memory of Doris can be made to the Auditorium Campaign of Illiana Christian High School, honoring her values of faith and education.  Doris’s life was a testament to love and family, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Visitation Friday, September 27, 2024 from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:30 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30/Pleasant Springs Ln.), Dyer, IN, with Rev. Steve Miller officiating.  Private interment Chapel Hill Gardens South – Oak Lawn, IL.

For further information or to sign an online guestbook please visit www.SMITSFH.com or contact 219-322-7300