Ginger Busboom (née Ward), age 81 of Downers Grove, was unexpectedly called home by her Heavenly Father at Good Samaritan Hospital, on Monday, May 12, 2025.

Ginger was born on March 29, 1944, in Owensboro, Kentucky, to Donald R and Ethel Ward (née Williams). After growing up in Villa Park, she attended Eastern Illinois University, where she met the love of her life, Leon "Buzz" Busboom.

Buzz and Ginger were married on June 6, 1964. Together they enjoyed almost 61 years of marriage, deeply rooted in faith, family, and fun. Whether making a home together in Wheaton, Illinois, or Hartland, Wisconsin, Ginger centered her life on Jesus, her family, and her friends and neighbors. She held many jobs throughout her life, but she found her deepest fulfillment in helping others. From her work with single mothers to her ecumenical Bible study, Ginger had a passion for spreading joy, enjoying the present, and looking forward with hope.

With champagne taste on a beer budget, Ginger could often be found enjoying a glass of bubbly and taking great joy in almost anything yellow, particularly yellow roses. She delighted in making the holidays come to life and the cozy comfort of a good book.

Whether known as Ginger, Ginny, Mom, Oma, or simply G, she brought effervescence and gaiety to all whom she met. Ginger had a knack for making everyone feel welcome and special. We are all lucky to have had her in our lives.

Ginger is survived by her devoted husband, Buzz, and her children, Donald (Elisabeth), Annamarie Holmgren (Scott), David, and Angela Busboom Yackley (Matthew Yackley). She is also survived by her treasured grandchildren, Torrey, Tucker, Sam, Ellie, Jonathan Holmgren (Lindsey), Jared Holmgren, Jack Holmgren (Katherine), and Linnea Holmgren. Ginger is also survived by three precious great-grandchildren and her brother Richard (Beverly) Ward. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Charles (Linda Waid) Ward, and her beloved dog, Irish.

A celebration of life will be held in late June. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Single Mom's Ministry at Wheaton Bible Church .