Rush Family Community Emergency Needs Fund

Following the death of Marie B. Rush on July 4, 1999, her family created the Rush Family Community Emergency Needs Fund, to address emergency needs within the community.

The Fund memorializes the Rush Family, which has been an integral part of Isabella County for more than 100 years. Charles Rush was a local saloon keeper in the later 1800s. His son Joe and daughter-in-law Marie owned and operated the J.J. Rush Funeral Home from 1935 to 1975. Joe Rush served as mayor of Mt. Pleasant in the early 1950s, and Marie was a charter member of the Central Michigan Community Hospital Auxiliary. One of their sons, Dr. Thomas Rush, is a retired orthopedic surgeon living in Midland; their other son, William Rush, is a local District Court Judge.

“Our parents instilled in us a sense of responsibility for those around us, especially those in need, through no fault of their own,” stated Dr. Rush. “Our vision is for the Foundation to address needs that arise in the community in an emergency situation.”

Judge Rush added that “it will take some time for the fund to grow to sufficient size to make a significant impact on the community. Patience is required for fund development and growth. Over time, however, we hope to assist many emergency needs in the community.”