Dennis George Edward Buske, "Denny the Barber," loving husband, father and grandfather passed away Saturday, December 4, 2021 at Cedar Ridge Health and Rehab, at the age of 84. Dennis was born September 20, 1937 in Watertown, Wisconsin. He graduated from Johnson Creek High School, in Wisconsin, and was quite the athlete. He went on to play football at Wartburg College, in Waverly, Iowa. Dennis served 4 years in the US Air Force as a medic 1957-61. In 1958 he played on the Scott Air Force Base championship baseball team. Despite severe injuries sustained in a tragic car accident at age 21, Dennis persevered and overcame many obstacles and challenges for the rest of his life. He attended Belleville Barber College and operated "Denny's Barber Shop" in Fairview Heights for 40 years, retiring in 2003. His hobbies included painting, hand-carving wood ducks, and collecting war memorabilia. Dennis had enjoyed coaching Khoury League baseball and Little Falcons football. He loved family vacations at the beach, watching his grandchildren play sports, and an occasional trip to the casino.

He was preceded in death by his parents Paul and Sylvia, nee Strache, Buske.

Surviving is the love of his life, his wife of over 60 years, Geraldine "Geri," nee Smith, Buske of O'Fallon; daughter Tammy (Vern) Watts of O'Fallon; son Keith (Jill) Buske of Wildwood, Mo.; grandchildren Brett (fiancé Keely Vasatka) Watts, Alyssa (fiance Mike Beard) Watts, Matthew Buske, and Anna Buske; sister Sandy (the late Dan) Rullman; and brother Steve Buske; many nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

Memorials can be made to the Disabled American Veterans ( dav.org ) in appreciation for their services provided over the years. Share your condolences and view a photo tribute at www.wfh-ofallon.com .

Visitation will be held from 2-5 pm, Sunday, December 12, 2021, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, 102 W. Washington St., O'Fallon, IL 62269.

Funeral service will be 10 am, Monday, December 13, 2021 at Faith Lutheran Church, 520 E. Highway 50, O'Fallon, with Pastor Candice Wassell and Vicar Brian Moeller officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Valhalla Gardens of Memory, Belleville, IL.

Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O'Fallon