Phillip Earl Bush

Phillip E. Bush, affectionately known as Phil to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2024, in Damascus, Ohio, at the age of 81. Born on May 20, 1942, in Canton, Ohio, Phil was a man of integrity, warmth, and an unwavering sense of duty, which he carried throughout his life.

Phil was a graduate of Goshen High School, class of 1960, and his commitment to service was evident early on. Shortly after his graduation, he answered the call of duty and served his country as a member of the US Army and served as an MP at Redstone Arsenal in Alabama. His time in the military imbued him with values that he would uphold for the rest of his life. He had retired from Electric Furnace Co. in Salem, Ohio as well as Filnor Corp. in Alliance.

After his honorable discharge, Phil returned to his roots in Ohio, where he would meet and marry the love of his life, Joyce K. (Morgan) Bush. They were married on April 15, 1965 and had 59 years of marriage. Their partnership was blessed with two wonderful children, Staci (Brian) Hole and Mike (Nanci) Bush. His role as a family man extended to his cherished grandchildren, Garrett Hole and Konnor Hole, who brought immense joy and pride. He is also survived by a step brother Larry (Judy) Solomon. Phil was preceded in death by his parents, Phillip E. Bush Sr. and Eiliene (Pettay) Bush, and his sister, Annette Shaffer. He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication that will be carried forward by his family.

A man of faith, Phil was a member of the Salem First Methodist Church. His interests were a reflection of his personality: meticulous, patient, and full of wonder at the intricacies of life. An avid woodworker, he spent countless hours crafting pieces that were not only beautiful but also filled with the love and care he put into every project. His appreciation for steam trains was more than just a hobby-it was a passion that he pursued with enthusiasm, having had the opportunity to ride on many and immerse himself in the rich history of the railways.

As we bid farewell to Phillip E. Bush, we celebrate a life well-lived-a life filled with service, love, and cherished memories. Phil's spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, his friends, and all the lives he touched. His journey may have come to an end, but the impact he made will resonate for generations to come. Phil's family would like to give a special thank you to the staff of Auburn Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for all of their loving kindness and care. Memorial contributions can be made in Phil's honor to the Alzheimer's Association
408 9th St SW Suite 3400, Canton, OH 44707.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 10, 2024 at Gednetz-Ruzek-Brown Funeral Home in Sebring at 11:00 AM with Pastor P. Douglass George officiating. A time of visitation will be held at the funeral home the hour prior to the service from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Burial will take place at Fairmount Memorial Park in Alliance. Friends and family may view the live stream of the service, send condolences and sign the guest register online at www.grfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Gednetz-Ruzek-Brown Funeral Home, (330) 938-2526.