OLYMPIA, Wash. – John F. Rush “Frank” died peacefully May 11, 2008, at home. Frank was born Oct. 16, 1921, in Benedicta, to Ralph and Anna Rush, and was the oldest of 11 children. He graduated from Saint Benedict High School in 1942, and worked on the family farm, until he joined the Army in 1945. Frank was a staff sergeant with the Army of Occupation in Germany, and later served his country in the Army Reserves and National Guard as a sergeant major. Frank and Dottie were married Aug. 1, 1953, and had been married for 54 years. Frank was a member of Knights of Columbus for 68 years and was involved in many activities through Saint Michael’s School and church, including many years as a Little League coach and organizing the set up of the churches past annual harvest festivals. Frank worked for the Olympia Brewery as a foreman before retiring in 1985, at the age of 64. During his retirement he enjoyed many activities with his friends, playing horseshoes, golfing, daily walks at the mall and snow-skiing until he was 85. He loved working in his yard and enjoyed his big family get-togethers, and rarely missed watching a Mariners or Seahawks game. Many people in the Olympia, area knew Frank as the “Mole-man,” and benefited from his unique ability in trapping those pesky moles. Surviving are his wife, Dottie; his children, Patti, Jim, Debi, Tami and John; 15 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Frank was predeceased by his son, Michael. Please join the family for a memorial service to be held noon May 23 at Saint Michael’s Church. In lieu of flowers, Mrs. Rush has requested that memorial donations be made to Providence SoundHomeCare and Hospice, 3432 South Bay Road NE, Olympia, WA 98509, as their caring service was a great comfort to her and Frank.
JOHN F. RUSH
