Carol M. Bushman

Carol M. Bushman, age 90, passed away on September 21, 2025, at Oak Park Place, surrounded by her family. She was born on October 25, 1934, to the late Carl and Edna (Brandt) Zuelzke in Appleton. She attended and graduated from Appleton High School in 1952. Carol met the young man who was destined to become her life partner for 62 years, Joseph Bushman when she was 17 and he was 20. They married on October 22, 1952, at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Appleton. Joe and Carol raised their family in Appleton.

Her children remember Carol being an active gardener and enjoyed knitting. Every member of her family recalls receiving a pair of hand knit slippers for Christmas. Carol enjoyed spending time with her family-they were number ONE!- and celebrations were always a highlight. Supported by her amazing baking and cooking skills, family gatherings were always filled with great food. She was also dedicated to canning vegetables every year-even when her kids left home.

Carol is survived by her children: Joseph Jr. (Debra) Bushman, Constance (Dave) Hoppe, Cynthia (Mark) Wheeler, Patrick (Christine) Bushman, Cheryl Halvorson, Carrie (Greg) Tomasik; 17 grandchildren; and 27 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren; and sisters-in-law: Catherine Johnson and Maxine Zuelzke. In addition, she is survived by many other nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.Carol was preceded in death by her husband Joe; a son Daniel; her brother Donald Zuelzke as well as many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

A funeral liturgy will take place on Tuesday September 30, 2025, at 11:00am, at St Bernadette Catholic Church, 2331 E Lourdes Dr, Appleton. Friends and family may gather at the church from 9:00am until the time of service. Carol will be laid to rest at St Mary’s Cemetery Appleton.

A special thank you to the staff at Oak Park Place for the care provided.