James Charles "Dusey" VanDusen, 69, of Traverse City passed away following a brief battle with cancer on June 29, 2020. Dusey was born March 28, 1951 in Detroit, son of Charles and Jacqueline (Reno) VanDusen. Dusey was a fun-loving guy who left a mark on Traverse City and beyond, and on those he knew and loved.

He graduated from Grand Blanc High School in 1969. The friendships he made during this time would last the rest of his life. He held these and all friendships close, and is already missed by everyone. Dusey was sincere, positive, and outgoing, someone impossible not to like.

In the early eighties, Dusey moved to Traverse City and remained there for the rest of his life. He was an avid golfer and was a longtime member of Interlochen Golf Course. He loved hunting and fishing with his friends, spending many duck and deer seasons on Drummond Island and fishing in the waters of northern Michigan. He owned and operated Siding Etc. for many years prior to retirement.

On May 5, 1995, Dusey married the love of his life and best friend, Susan Firchau. Together the couple traveled all over, including many Caribbean destinations, and he made friends everywhere he went.

Dusey leaves behind his wife Susan; sister Lynne (Mike) Borer; brother John (Karen) VanDusen; brother-in-law Dick Guzowski; several nieces, nephews and extended family members; and countless amazing friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws Fred and Janet Firchau; and sister-in-law Sally Guzowski.

A Celebration of Dusey's life will be held on September 18, 2020 from 1 to 4 p.m. The gathering will be at the Greilickville Harbor Park Pavilion, 13133 S W Bay Shore Dr. Traverse City, MI 49684. Parking is limited, however there is additional parking available across the street off E Brewery Creek Lane, and a shuttle to the Celebration will be available.

The Pavilion will provide a great outdoor setting with plenty of space for everyone to feel comfortable sharing memories, stories, and laughter in remembrance of Jim. Please join us for this Celebration of Jim's life.

In lieu of flowers, people who wish to remember Dusey are asked to consider the Traverse City Junior Golf Association, which encourages kids to learn, grow, and enjoy life on and off the golf course. Donations may be made to TCJGA, 5550 Bay Meadows Drive, Suite A, Traverse City, MI 49684.

Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services is caring for Dusey and his family. Visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share a memory.

We can all honor Dusey's memory by spending time outdoors with friends and family.