Albert Henry Prince

Albert Henry “Buster” Prince

February 4, 1937 – August 9, 2024

SANTEE – Buster Prince passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family after a seven-year battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Born in Pittsfield, MA to Albert and Dora Prince, Buster spent his childhood years in Dalton, MA. After Buster graduated high school he served in the Army during the Korean War. In 1961 he married Lyla Virginia Lathrop and their remarkably storied marriage lasted 57 years until her passing in 2017. 

A natural entrepreneur, he spent much of his life running his own businesses. Starting as a government mail contractor in Pittsfield, MA, and later as the owner of Bob’s Auto Transport in Santee, CA. 

A devoted father to his three children, Buster instilled in them a love for adventure and exploration. As an avid motorcyclist he completed 24 SCMA Three-Flag Classic rides, the Four Corners tour, and numerous motorcycle off-road trips including through Mexico and Alaska.

Buster was known for his remarkable ability to fix anything using whatever was on hand. His friends affectionately coined the term “Busterized” to honor his inventive problem-solving skills, a term they still use today.

Buster is survived by his daughters, Marilyn Prince and Julia Kosobucki; his three sisters, Rosamond, Marilyn, and Althea; and his three grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He will be cremated and laid to rest in Dalton, MA, alongside his beloved son Stephen and his wife Lyla.

A memorial service will be held in San Diego at his house on October 19th from 2:00pm to 4:00pm, with a graveside service to follow in Dalton, MA at a later date. Please call Marilyn at 619-895-6990 or Julia at 909-615-5472 for further details.

To honor Buster, please cherish your loved ones—give flowers to someone special, give your family a hug. If you wish support the fight against Alzheimer’s Disease, consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Association, an organization dedicated to advancing research and finding a cure for this devastating disease often called “The Long Goodbye.” 

In closing, let’s celebrate Buster's life and the profound impact he had on all who knew him. His spirit of adventure, humor, entrepreneurial drive, resilience, and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.

Thank you for keeping Buster and his family in your thoughts during this time of remembrance.