Longtime Babylon Village resident Ernest Busch died after a short illness on June 25, 2008. The 48-year-old was called "Buddy" by his family, and "Pop" by his grandchildren.

Born in Manhattan and raised in Staten Island, he moved to Babylon Village when he was 9-years-old and lived there for 39 years. A roadwork and highway contractor by trade, Mr. Bush had worked for the Village, the Town, the County and the State at different times in his career.

Mr. Busch was a dedicated parishioner and volunteer at St. Joseph's R.C. Church in Babylon.

He leaves behind his wife of 28 years, Gail; his children: Amy DeJoseph and her husband Michael, Kimberly DeMaio and her husband Anthony, Jaclyn, Erica, Laurie and Grace-Ann; his grandchildren: Jacob, Sophia, Anthony and one other expected in October. His father, Ernest also survives him as do his siblings: Ronnie, Reilly and Pat, Karen and Keith and his wife Heather and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother, Veronica.

Mr. Busch reposed at the Claude R. Boyd-Spencer Funeral Home in Babylon Village on June 26 and 27, 2008. A Funeral Mass was said on June 28, 2008 at St. Joseph's R.C. Church, Babylon, followed by interment in North Babylon Cemetery.

Donations in Mr. Busch's name can be sent to St. Joseph's Church, 39 North Carll Ave., Babylon, New York 11702-2701.