Ray Bush, 88, of Grinnell, died at his home on Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025. A funeral service was held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 1, at Grinnell United Methodist Church with Pastor Eric Schubert officiating. Interment was in Hazelwood Cemetery in Grinnell. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be designated to Grinnell United Methodist Church or to Second Mile and mailed in care of the Smith Funeral Home and Crematory, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.
Raymond Lawrence Bush was born Apr. 13, 1936, in Eyota, MN, to Lawrence and Marjorie (Chermak) Bush. He was raised and educated in Eyota before continuing his studies at Rochester Junior College, Mankato State University, and later graduating from Winona State University. Ray honorably served in the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, MO.
Sept. 10, 1960, Ray married Judith McLean at United Methodist Church in Rochester, MN. Together, they built a beautiful life, residing in Rochester before moving to Cedar Rapids in 1968, then Urbandale in 1970, and eventually settling in Grinnell in 1975.
Ray dedicated 23 years of his career to Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance, where he worked as a regional claims manager until his retirement in June 2002. He was a devoted member of Grinnell United Methodist Church, actively serving on various committees and living his faith through service. His generosity extended to his community, where he volunteered countless hours at Grinnell Regional Medical Center and Second Mile, serving on its board.
Ray found joy in the simple pleasures of life such as bike riding, working on puzzles, collecting Dickens Christmas village sets, and listening to polka and jazz music. Above all, he was a man of strong faith and deep love for his family. He cherished attending his grandchildren's school and athletic events, always as their biggest supporter. Ray will be remembered for his strong will, kind heart, and unwavering dedication as a faithful servant.
Ray is survived by his wife of 64 years, Judy Bush of Grinnell; children, Lawrence (Amy) Bush of Mitchellville, Dr. Jeffrey Bush of Minnetonka, MN, Timothy Bush of Mitchellville, Elizabeth "Ann" Bush, Rebecca Bush Schultz of Lakeville, MN; grandchildren, Heather Bush, Alex Bush, Jacob Bush, Kate Bush, Ian Bush, Zane Bush, Liberty Schultz, Hope Bush, and Tamer Bush; and his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother David Bush; and sister Arlene Reinecke.
