Donald ‘Buster’ Harmala

Buster was born in Ishpeming on November 29, 1958, son of the late Donald C. Harmala, and Jean E. (Besander) Harmala. He attended Ishpeming Public Schools with the class of 1977, and soon after enlisted in the United States Navy where he honorably served for 16 years. Following his discharge from the Navy he drove truck for Gunville for several years before working for 10 years at the Marquette County Medical Care Facility where he was known for being the comedian of the building, always able to bring a smile to someone’s face.

Buster enjoyed going on trips to the casino every Saturday with his mother, Friday night fish fry’s, spending time with his family, he adored his nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews who fondly called him ‘Gunka’. As Gunka, his presence was always adored, especially when he would come home on leave from the Navy and would spoil and bring all the nieces and nephews for lunch dates.

Buster is survived by his mother- Jean (Besander) Harmala, son- Ryan Harmala, brother- Bob (Cindy) Harmala, 2 sisters- Carol (Sam) Morcom, Theresa (Steve) Josephson, brother-in-law- Lonnie Ayotte, several nieces and nephews, including a special niece- Heather (Aaron) Salo, along with several great nieces and nephews who were the light of Buster’s life. He is further survived by his best friend- David Beale. Buster was preceded in death by his father, sister- Lola Ayotte, and nephew- Cory Derocha.

Buster’s family will greet relatives and friends at the Bjork and Zhulkie Funeral Home from 11:00am until 1:00pm on Friday May 23, 2025. A time for sharing of stories and memories will be held at 1:00pm. Interment will take place at the Ishpeming Cemetery where Military Honors will be accorded by the United States Navy. A luncheon will follow the burial at the Ishpeming VFW 310 Bank St. Ishpeming, MI 49849.

Pallbearers for Buster will be Ryan Harmala, Robert Harmala, Sam Morcom, Brandon Morcom, Justin Josephson, and Hunter Josephson.

Buster’s complete obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.