Final Voyage

To all hands having had the privilege to know Marty Bushman, 54-59 FT

With regrets, one of Perry's finest, Marty Bushman has taken his Final Voyage on May of 2007. I'm proud to say, Marty ranks high among the most gallant of all Perry shipmates. While he knew this day was fast approaching, he never wavered in the way he conducted his life with humor, honesty and bravery.

As many of us did, we first met Marty at our 1st reunion in Virginia Beach, VA. Within seconds the warmth of this wonderful guy was discovered and the bond of his friendship would continue to grow as it did with everyone he met. Marty truly loved the Perry and every one of us associated with it. Even the heart transplant he received in early 2003 was not a deterrent to keep him from attending our Branson MO reunion. We were also lucky to have Marty with us in Charleston. However, by the time our D.C. reunion came around Marty was experiencing health problems associated with his heart transplant. His disappointment at being unable to be with us in D.C. was truly over shadowed by our disappointment at not having a favorite son of the Perry with us. In true Perry spirit and in spite of failing health, Marty filled that void by hosting several fun filled gatherings of his own with his fellow shipmates at his home in Port Charlotte FL.

When we last spoke just before our San Antonio reunion, Marty said if there was even the slightest chance to be with us one more time he wouldn't miss it for all the tea in China. What a guy, he was all HEART! He may be 'gone but not forgotten'.

Fair winds and smooth sailing our friend. We're gonna miss you man.

Memorial services, will be held at the home May 12th and one at the beach
on June 17th (Sunday, Father's Day).

Condolences can be mailed to
MARELYN BUSHMAN
2474 NEWBURY ST.
PT CHARLOTTE, FL 33952
Email fwconch120902@earthlink.net

Steve Silk