James “Jim” Busch

Obituary

Obituaries | The Tube City Almanac | February 10, 2026

James "Jim" Busch, 73, passed from this world into the "great unknown" on February 5, 2026, surrounded by his family. Jim lived a life full of love and laughter. He was preceded in death by the love of his life and wife of 49 years, Glenda (Bereczky) Busch. Before she passed, Jim and Glenda summed up their life together by saying, "It's been fun!"

He was also preceded in death by his sister, Peggy Rollason, and best friend and wandering buddy, Ralph Scaramuzzi. Jim is survived by his son, Jesse Busch (wife Erin Morey) of Mt. Lebanon, his daughter Rachael Morgan (wife Kathy) of Versailles, and his beloved grandson, Max Busch (Chicago, IL). Jim is also survived by his "adopted" son, Gabriel Szafranski (partner Eric Wolfe) of Mt. Washington, and like-a-daughter, Hilary Graham of Elizabeth. Jim is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Sue Tkac, of White Oak, and Sally Shebeck (husband Frank), of Farrell, as well as many special nieces, nephews, and grandnieces and grandnephews.

Jim worked as an advertising executive for the PennySaver and as a journalist, principally for the Mon Valley Independent. As a trainer, he taught classes on advertising across the country. Jim was a lifelong learner who loved reading, arts and crafts, museums, poetry, music, history, gardening, nature, and spending time in the forest. He was known for his sense of humor and his curiosity. Jim enjoyed writing and reading stories that brought audiences to tears or made them laugh. He loved giving thoughtful gifts, especially books, to his family and friends. He was a compassionate man who cared deeply for others. There will be no viewing. A private green burial at Penn Forest in Verona, per his request to return to nature, will be held Friday, February 13, 2026. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local library. A public memorial for friends and family will be held at a later date. Jim wrote this obituary himself and wanted to leave his family and friends with these words of wisdom from poet Mary Oliver: "Instructions for Living a Life - Pay attention - Be astonished - Tell about it!". Professional services trusted to D'ALESSANDRO FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY LTD., Lawrenceville. www.dalessandroltd.com.

Originally published February 10, 2026.

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