Joe Dalton Buster, 92, passed away on Thursday, February 5, 2015.

He was born on September 6, 1922, in Lebanon to the late Pearl Dalton Buster and Clyde C. Buster and spent his childhood in Gravel Switch, KY. After graduation from Lebanon High School in 1940 he entered the U.S. Navy before the onset of World War II. He spent six years in the service, primarily in the Pacific Theater. After discharge from the Navy he moved to Springfield, KY, where he joined C.C. Buster & Sons, the poultry business established by his father. He and his brother, ED, operated the business for many years. In the mid-60's he established and operated the Sears Catalog Store in Lebanon. He was employed by the Kentucky Department of Corrections at LaGrange, retiring in 1986.

Although he already earned an exceptional reputation for helping others, upon retirement he was able to devote even more time to service and volunteerism. He became a mainstay volunteer at Spring View Hospital in Lebanon, beginning when it was still Mary Immaculate Hospital. He continued in this role for 26 years. He was a past president of the volunteer group and was honored as Volunteer of the Year.

He saw only the good in all people and never spoke an unkind word. He faced all of life's challenges with stoic strength and character, resolve and humor. He was known for and will be remembered for his unyielding optimism, selflessness, and gentleness of spirit.

He was a member of the Lebanon United Presbyterian Church. He was a Master Mason with Lodge 50 Springfield and a member of The American Legion, Lebanon Post.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Muriel Keith Walls Buster, and two brothers, Edward Buster and Hays Buster.

Survivors are a son, Michael, of Nashville, TN, a daughter, Pat, of Louisville, KY, and two sisters, Imogene Keeling, of Harrodsburg, KY, and Clydine Blue, of Henderson, KY. Also surviving are nieces and nephews; a special cousin, Bob Noel, Lexington, KY; and many good, loyal friends.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 10 at Bosley Funeral Home, led by Rev. Carrie Mook Bridgman and Rev. Peggy W. Birmingham. Burial will follow at the Lebanon National Cemetery, with Military Honors provided by the Marion County Veterans Honor Guard. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday.

Memorial donations suggested to Honor Flight Bluegrass Chapter (www.honorflightbluegrass.org) who fly aging veterans to Washington D.C. to visit their service and war memorials. Joe participated in an Honor Flight in 2009. Or, because of his compassionate concern for all creatures, to the Marion County Animal Shelter (1105 Highway 208, Lebanon, KY. 40033).