David Eli Busel

 David Eli Busel, beloved husband, brother, uncle and friend passed away on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at Duke Regional Hospital in Durham, NC. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Phyllis Jean Busel. He was born on May 2, 1930, in Brooklyn NY, the son of Solomon and Jean Busel.

After completing high school, David joined the Navy and served for four years. He completed basic training at Great Lakes and went to Jacksonville, Florida air force naval station and Bayonne NJ for further training. When the Korean War broke out, he was sent to San Diego to serve on an LST ship. He was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1952, then went on to complete an apprenticeship in Financial Management. He worked in finance for his entire career. At the time of his retirement, he managed finances for a chain of stores in the Chicago area.

David was introduced to his wife Phyllis Jean by a mutual friend, and they hit it off immediately. They were married in 1971 and were each other’s soulmates.

David was extremely well-read and was admired for his knowledge of music history. Of special interest to him were the lives of classical composers for which he had a photographic memory. He had a keen interest in business news and world affairs, as well as fine art, and was a devoted UNC Tar Heels fan. Notorious for his wit and droll sense of humor, David made an unforgettable impression on all he met.

In addition to his wife, David is survived by his sister, Shirley Lang, niece, Gayle Minkus (Loren), nephew, Louis Lang, all of Chicago, several great-nieces, great-nephews, and wonderful close friends.  The family would especially like to thank the doctors, nurses and all nursing personnel who treated him with such care and dignity in his final days at Duke Regional Hospital.

A memorial service will be held at a later date to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to AIPAC or Fearrington Cares.

Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Busel family.