Rebecca "Becky" Bushman

Rebecca (“Becky”) Anne Bushman defined grace, elegance, and quiet strength. She was a radiant individual that lived life passionately. Her love of big enveloping hugs and taking walks in nature was matched by her love for the fancy and spectacular. Becky was a rare blend of sharp intelligence and playful goofiness. This combination, one that made people feel both inspired and at ease, is part of what drew so many to her. It’s no surprise she formed such deep, lasting friendships. Becky was also beautiful with a striking smile, big hazel eyes, and a distinctive laugh that can still be heard.

Becky was born on June 12th, 1977 to Peggy and Bradford McKendry. She joined her siblings Brice, Lance, and Bonnie, who were waiting for her in their South Milwaukee home. As a child, Becky was often dressed in elaborate dresses made by Peggy. The appreciation for detail and craft persisted her entire life. Becky learned to play the violin at a young age and was a member of the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra. She also played tennis, soccer, and was a competitive ice skater. Nothing made Becky happier than hearing her dad tell her how proud he was of her. His support and admiration continued throughout her life as Becky grew and became more accomplished.

Becky made and maintained countless friendships throughout her life. Many from high school will remember her cruising through Grant Park in her royal blue Mustang without a care in the world. She took part in the making of many hilarious home videos, painting The Rock in the wee hours of the night, having sleepovers, playing card games and enjoying lots of laughter.

Becky attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison and graduated in May 2000 with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. She was a great student, but also found time to enjoy the weekends. Her favorite activities were attending Badger football games, partying on State Street, and singing Varsity and Christmas carols to randomly selected individuals from the dorm phonebook.

Becky met her husband, Ryan, on June 5th 2000 in Milwaukee on their first day of work out of college in the Trust Operations department of M&I Bank. Their flirting quickly became serious and they fell in love and were married on August 24th 2002. They built a remarkable life together, sharing many of the same friends and passions. Becky loved to travel and her favorite locations included national parks, Spain, France, Scotland, and Munich for Oktoberfest. Becky also loved reading, going to concerts and having a night in playing cards. Ryan’s parents, Carole and Robert, loved Becky absolutely. They, along with Ryan and several of Becky’s friends, cared for Becky around the clock in the last year of her life.

Becky and Ryan moved to San Diego in early 2017. A key selling point to moving was the vibrant Badger Alumni Chapter, where Becky made additional meaningful friendships and actively participated in game watching and brewery tastings. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve was a special place of comfort for Becky. She visited this park frequently, including the day of her mother’s passing.

Becky’s career flourished while she and Ryan lived in San Diego. She was recruited by LPL Financial and then Osaic. Her colleagues described her as being transformational, a steady source of strength and positivity, and a leader that created space for others to shine. She loved working for Osaic, a company that gave her love, respect, and compassion.

Becky was grateful for all the good fortune she had, especially the wonderful relationships that filled her with love. We can all be a little bit closer to Becky if we strive to give more generously, be quicker to laugh, learn to be more interested than interesting, and always say “yes”.

Thank you to Carole and Robert, Patty and Mike, Katie, Sarah, Ana, Lisa, Jenny, Laura, Betsy, and Jeff for taking amazing care of Becky.