Jean Anderson Bushman

life story

Jean Anderson Bushman, 95, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 22, surrounded by her children and grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, David Bushman, and her infant son, Daniel Bushman.

Jean is survived by her children: Michael Bushman (Susan), Peter Bushman, Suzan Kelly (Wayne), Sandra Bushman, Jane Goshgarian (Michael), and Catherine Hollenbeck (Joe); as well as 17 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Born in Grand Marais, Minnesota, Jean married David Bushman in 1954. In 1962, they settled in Watsonville, California. During her years in Watsonville, Jean raised her six children while returning to school in the 1970s to earn her bachelor’s degree from University of California, Santa Cruz. She was devoted to giving her children rich experiences in music, dance, and the arts, and to supporting their growth and education throughout their lives.

After 28 years in Watsonville, Jean and David returned to Grand Marais in 1990, where Jean owned a yarn store and was active in the community through her work with the Friends of the Library and her leadership in the local fiber arts guild. A gifted teacher and generous resource, she shared her skills in quilting, knitting, and other forms of needlework with many. After David’s death in 2000, Jean continued living in Grand Marais until her return to Watsonville in 2023.

Jean was an accomplished fiber artist, pianist, and cook, and a lifelong learner who inspired creativity, curiosity, and a love of learning in her children. She will be deeply missed.