Julia M. Busch, age 93, of Jordan, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on August 16, 2026.

Julia was born to Edward and Esther (Zvanovec) Flicek on January 26, 1933, in New Prague. She grew up with her family in New Prague, where she later met the love of her life, Bernard. The two were married on June 23, 1955, and began their life together in New Prague, where they raised their two children. Eventually, Julia and Bernard moved to a hobby farm in Jordan, where they would spend the rest of their lives.

In her early years, Julia worked at Green Giant. During the Korean War, she worked at Jason Manufacturing, making bandolier belts for soldiers.

Life on the farm suited Julia well. She loved gardening and caring for the many animals they raised over the years, including steers, pigs, cats, and dogs. She especially loved her favorite dog, Barney.

Julia was spry, social, and constantly busy. She rarely sat still and was happiest when she had something to do. She had a way of making an impression on everyone she met, and people remembered her long after their first conversation. Approachable and friendly, Julia made friends easily and genuinely enjoyed talking with people. She often went along with Bernard when he repaired tractors, visiting with the families while he worked. Julia had a special way of focusing her attention on others and never wanted the attention to be on herself.

In their younger years, Julia and Bernard loved to travel. They took family road trips throughout the United States and also enjoyed trips to the Bahamas, Canada, and Mexico.

Julia loved Czech music and could often be found listening, singing along, and dancing. She also had a great love for cooking and baking and frequently welcomed her family into her home for meals. She collected cookbooks and enjoyed trying new recipes. Her love of cooking began with her Aunt Mary, whom Julia watched closely as she baked and cooked, learning many of the skills that would become a lifelong passion.

For Julia, cooking was another way to care for people. She loved serving others and making sure everyone who came into her home was well fed and taken care of. Her helpful nature extended far beyond her kitchen. She was compassionate toward those in need and was always willing to lend a hand.

Julia also loved to read, particularly mysteries and stories about the Amish, which captivated her attention in her later years. She enjoyed watching Wheel of Fortune and took pride in figuring out the puzzles before the contestants did.

Julia loved watching sports and was an enthusiastic fan of Gopher basketball, the Minnesota Twins, and WWE wrestling. March Madness was an especially exciting time of year for her, and she looked forward to watching the tournament each spring.

Julia is survived by her daughter, Janice (Mark) Koehnen; son, Bernie Jr.; sisters-in-law Dorothy and Ellen Flicek; nieces, and other loving family and friends. She is preceded by her husband Bernard; her parents; and brothers, Edward, George, and Donald Flicek; and nephew Gary Flicek.

Julia will be remembered for her warm personality, her boundless energy, her compassion for others, and the genuine interest she showed in everyone she met. Above all, she found joy in caring for people and making sure those around her felt welcomed and cared for. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

A Catholic Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at Bruzek Funeral Home, 610 Main St. E., New Prague, MN 56071, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM. Interment will take place at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery in New Prague.