Peter Businger's Obituary
Peter Businger, age 93, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home on November 2, 2020, in Cinnaminson, New Jersey, with his wife Marijke by his side.
Peter was born in Huizen, the Netherlands. He received his degree in Forestry from Wageningen University, where he was active in the student government and played clarinet in the Ceres jazz band. Over the years he attended many reunions of his year club and jazz band and kept in touch with his many friends in Europe and Canada.
Peter worked for the Netherlands Ministry of Social affairs and Public Health as Vice Consul in charge of Emigration Affairs, providing assistance and service to newly arrived Dutch immigrants in Canada and later the resettlement of Dutch refugees from Indonesia in the U.S. Peter was later employed by the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture. During his long career he was posted in the U.S., Japan, Brazil and Canada.
Peter had the soul of an artist. He improvised on his jazz clarinet, and was a generous host who enjoyed entertaining his guests with fine wines and engaging stories. He traveled the world with a curious spirit which continued long into retirement. His love of trees and forestry remained a lifelong passion.
Peter was a gentle and loving father to his stepdaughter Anna. He was devoted to his wife and proud of the accomplishments of his stepson Kevin and his wife. He adored his two granddaughters.
Peter leaves behind his beloved wife Marijke, his stepdaughter Anna, his stepson Dr. Kevin McGuire and spouse Paula McGuire, and granddaughters Miranda and Katherine of Media, PA; his brother Joost (Marianne) of Guemes Island, Washington State, his nephews Ferdi Businger, Steven Businger, and his niece Margi Houghton (Richard). His first wife, Lilas Galant, preceded him in death in 1995.
During this pandemic no funeral service will be held. A celebration of his life is planned for a later date.
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