John Wayne Bush, known as "Bud" for much of his life and "Duke" in his later years, died May 24, 2002 in Salt Lake City, after a decade-long struggle with Parkinson's disease. He died surrounded by his family, and leaves behind a permanent legacy of love, wisdom and good works.
"Bud" was born September 28, 1924 in Salt Lake City, the youngest of ten children of Charles Clarence and Martha Matilda Isgreen Bush. He grew up in Salt Lake's east side, and was a graduate of East High School and the University of Utah. He served with honor in World War II aboard the U.S.S. Kishwaukee, and was present in the Battle of Leyte Gulf.
After the war, he met and married his wife, the former LaPriel Strong. He lived for fifty years in the Cottonwood area, raising five children. He was a member of the LDS Church, and attended the Cottonwood Third Ward. He spent a thirty-year career at Mountain Bell (later U.S. West), during which time he never once called in sick. After his retirement in 1982, he worked on many projects, traveled often, and devoted much attention to his many grand- children.
In every stage of his life, "Bud" readily shared his gifts with those around him. As a young man, he was known for his joyous exuberance and love of life, reflected in his easy smile, quick wit and beautiful tenor voice. As time progressed, he became a diligent and heroic husband and father, providing his family with a secure home, wise counsel and the very best of himself. Later, he served as a loving mentor and advisor to those he had raised, and a friend to all who knew him. He stands as a shining model of a life well-lived, and an example for those who come after him.
He is survived by his loving wife, his five children: John (Nancy), Diana (Larry) DeLuca, Dan (Debbie), Jeff (Cindra), and Mike (Christy), sixteen grandchildren, four great-grand- children and numerous in-laws. He is also survived by one of his brothers, Sterling Bush.
The family wishes to extend special thanks to Duke's care givers, including his home health workers and the staff of the Utah State Veteran's Nursing Home, for their efforts on his behalf.
Services will be Tuesday, May 28, 2002 at 12:00 noon at the Larkin Sunset Gardens Mortuary Chapel 1950 E. 10600 S. Sandy, where friends may call Monday, May 27, 2002 from 6 to 8 p.m. and Tuesday one hour prior to services.