2026 Legacy Award: Gary Busenbark

Good evening everyone!!!

We are gathered tonight to celebrate a life defined by passion, purpose, generosity, and service. A life that left an unmistakable mark not only on our business community, but on all our hearts. It is my honor to present the Park Hills Leadington Chamber of Commerce Legacy Award to a truly remarkable man, Gary Milton Busenbark!!!

Gary Busenbark was born on September 4, 1939, in Bonne Terre, Missouri, to Leslie and Irene Busenbark. Even at a young age, his entrepreneurial spirit was evident. As a boy, Gary sold Dilly Bars from his bicycle and helped neighbors by plowing gardens. These were not just childhood activities. They were early signs of a work ethic and sense of responsibility that would guide his entire life.

After serving in the Army Reserves, Gary returned home with discipline, determination, and a vision for the future. That vision became Busenbark Flooring, a business he proudly built and operated for many years. Through hard work, honesty, and attention to detail, Gary earned the respect of customers and peers alike. His business became a trusted name and a reflection of the integrity he carried into every endeavor.

Gary never stopped working or dreaming. Even after retiring from the flooring industry, he continued to help grow the family business by expanding into granite and trailer services. His leadership and experience helped strengthen the business for future generations while continuing to contribute to the local economy.

What truly set Gary apart was his dedication to service and community. He believed in showing up and getting things done. Whether operating heavy equipment, clearing land, or assisting with development projects that helped grow industrial opportunities in our area, Gary was always willing to lend his time, skills, and energy. He was the kind of person who did not wait to be asked. He simply stepped in where help was needed.

Outside of work, Gary embraced life fully. He loved the outdoors and found joy in hunting, farming, riding motorcycles, snowmobiling, boating, and spending time on the land. He had an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures of life.

Anyone who knew Gary also knew his gift for storytelling. His stories were filled with humor, wisdom, and warmth. He had a way of bringing people together through laughter and conversation, reminding us that connection and shared experiences are what truly matter.

Above all else, Gary’s greatest pride was his family. He shared 61 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Clara Jean Busenbark. Their life together was built on love, commitment, and partnership.

Gary was a devoted father to Traci, Todd, Chad, Leslie, and Brock, instilling in them the same values of hard work, integrity, and generosity that defined his own life. He was also a proud grandfather and great grandfather who cherished time with his growing family and the legacy he was building through them.

Gary Busenbark lived a life that was shared generously with others. He supported his family, strengthened businesses, served his community, and left every place better than he found it. His impact can still be seen in the people he helped, the work he completed, and the example he set.

The Legacy Award honors individuals whose influence extends far beyond their own lifetime. Individuals whose values, leadership, and service continue to shape our community long after they are gone. Gary Busenbark embodied everything this award represents.

Although Gary passed away on December 10, 2024, his legacy lives on through his family, his work, and the countless lives he touched. He showed us what it means to live fully, give freely, and care deeply for others.

Please join me in honoring Gary Milton Busenbark, a devoted family man, a respected business leader, a community servant, and a storyteller whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come!!!