Obituary of Richard Albert Bushnell

November 3, 1945 – July 18, 2024

Richard Albert Bushnell (Dick/Bushy), 78 of Cortland passed away peacefully on Thursday July 18 at home.

Dick was born in Cortland on November 3, 1945. The 8th of 11 children born to the late Bernice (Henry) & Lyman Bushnell. He grew up on Floral Avenue and attended Cortland schools all his life, graduating from Cortland High School in 1965. After graduating he was drafted in the US Army, serving from 1965 – 1967. Upon being honorably discharged Dick began a long, and proud career with Coca-Cola retiring after 35 years. After retirement Dick returned to work, working for the Cortland Housing Authority and Walden Place Assisted Living Facility.

He was a lifetime member of the Homer Fire Department, a member of the American Legion and a former county legislature, where he chairedthe JPS committee. He was an avid fisherman, car enthusiast and a Coca-Cola memorabilia collector. He is survived by his wife Denise (L’Hommedieu) Bushnell whom he celebrated 39 years of marriage with on the 13th of this month. As well as his daughters Shawna Sipfle, Desiree (Jeramy) Hotaling and Kerri Bushnell. He is also survived by his two granddaughters, Lakelyn & Lainey Hotaling who brought him much pride and joy.

In addition, he is survived by his siblings Jesse (Sharon) Bushnell, Ronald “Pete” Bushnell, Arthur (Sylvia “Pete”) Bushnell, Stanley “Marty” Bushnell, Robert “Bob” Bushnell, Kathleen Robbins, Debbie Rangcapan & Anna Buck. Brother-in-Law Randy (Korinne) L’Hommedieu, Sister-in-Law Michele (Chris) McDonald, Brother-in-Law Edward Kowalski and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sisters Ardelia Kowalski and Aggie Metcalf, his Father-in-Law John L’Hommedieu, Mother-in-Law Dorothy Aiken, Sister-in-Laws Patricia Bushnell, Charlene Bushnell and Judy Bushnell. As well as Brother-in-Laws Burt Buck, Steve Robbins, Leon Rounds Sr., and Dutch Metcalf. And lastly his beloved dog Hemi-Joe.

Per Dick’s request there will be no services. A celebration of life is being planned for September.