Mike Matzinger
Orlando Busino (October 10, 1926 – January 11, 2022) was an American cartoonist renowned for creating “Gus,” the beloved shaggy white dog who graced the pages of Boys’ Life and later Scout Life magazines for over five decades. His work brought joy to generations of readers and left an indelible mark on the world of cartooning.
Born in Binghamton, New York, Busino’s passion for cartooning ignited at the age of nine. By fourteen, he had sold his first cartoon to the New York Daily Mirror. He honed his craft through high school, where he contributed to the school newspaper, and later at the University of Iowa, where he graduated in 1952. His early experiences laid the foundation for a prolific career in illustration and cartooning.
After serving in the U.S. Army in Panama from 1945 to 1947, Busino pursued formal training at the Cartoonists and Illustrators School in New York City. He began his professional career in the advertising department of Macmillan Publishing before transitioning to freelance work. His cartoons appeared in prestigious publications such as McCall’s, Reader’s Digest, Good Housekeeping, and the Saturday Evening Post.
In January 1970, Busino introduced “Gus” in Boys’ Life magazine. The single-panel gag cartoons, featuring the humorous antics of a large white dog, quickly became a staple of the magazine’s “Think & Grin” section. “Gus” resonated with readers for its simplicity, warmth, and timeless humor.
Busino’s contributions were not limited to magazine cartoons. He also worked with Archie Comics in the 1960s, creating covers, illustrations, and stories for “Tales Calculated To Drive You Bats,” which were later reprinted in Archie’s Madhouse.
Over his illustrious career, Busino received the National Cartoonist Society’s Gag Cartoon Award in 1965, 1967, and 1968. His work was compiled into two books: Good Boy! and Other Animal Cartoons (1980) and Oh, Gus! (1981), showcasing his unique style and enduring appeal.
In 2021, at the age of 95, Busino was honored for his 52 years of contributions to the Boy Scouts of America at a camporee sponsored by the Powahay and Scatacook districts of the Connecticut Yankee Council. During the event, he was presented with a commemorative plaque and a special Scout Life cover created by the magazine’s art department.
Busino lived in Ridgefield, Connecticut, with his wife, Ann. He continued to draw and contribute to Scout Life until his passing on January 11, 2022, at the age of 95. His final “Gus” cartoon, a touching tribute to his legacy, was published posthumously in the April 2022 issue of the magazine.
Orlando Busino’s work transcended generations, bringing laughter and warmth to readers young and old. Through “Gus,” he reminded us all of the simple joys and enduring bonds that make life special.