Charles R. “Butch” Bush, 78, of Parsons, passed away on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at Good Samaritan Society of Parsons, following his fifth heart attack. True to his spirit, he was tough as nails until the very end.
Butch was born on Jan. 1, 1947, to Charles Melvin “Buck” and Edna (Mann) Bush in Parsons. He grew up in the area and graduated from Labette County High School. Shortly after graduation, he volunteered for the United States Navy, proudly serving two tours in Vietnam.
After returning home, Butch pursued further education, earning multiple certifications in welding and machinery, as well as an associate’s degree in accounting. He worked for many years as a machinist at Boeing before returning to Parsons in 1995, where he lived the rest of his life surrounded by family and lifelong friends.
Butch enjoyed motorcycles and playing pool, competing in local leagues on a team known as “Butch’s Gang,” whose motto was “Family, Friends, Fun (Mostly Fun).”
A lifelong NASCAR fan, he especially admired Dale Earnhardt and Dale Earnhardt, Jr. He was also an avid WWE fan who rarely missed a match, cheering for his favorite wrestlers with the same enthusiasm he brought to every part of his life. Butch was a devoted Seattle Seahawks fan, proudly sporting his team colors on gameday. He loved classic westerns, often spending quiet evenings watching old shows on the Grit channel with a cold Dr. Pepper in hand.
Butch was married several times throughout his life, each relationship marking an important chapter of his story. He was married to Vickie Bush for 40 years before their divorce in 2022.
Butch will be remembered most for his incredible positivity, kindness and generosity. Throughout his life, he donated to more than 30 different charities and quietly helped countless people in need while never expecting anything in return. He had a heart of gold, a stubborn streak of strength and a way of making everyone around him feel seen and cared for. His compassion and selflessness left a mark that will never fade.
Survivors include: four children, Charles “Charlie” Schoenhofer, Sr., of Blue Rapids; Melinda “Mindy” Bush of Seattle, Washington; Misty DeMoss of Dallas, Texas and Michael “Mike” Bush of Parsons; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; One brother, Roger Bush (Dana) of Basehor; three sisters, Gloria Cunninghamm-Talbot (David) of Parsons, Pam Giefer (Ron) of Parsons, and Wendy Bush of Parsons.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Wayne Bush; and one sister, Karen Mahan.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 14, at Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home in Parsons. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 a.m., until the service begins. Burial will follow at McCune Cemetery in McCune with military honors presented by the Brown-Bishop VFW Post 704.
Leave online condolences at www.forbeshoffman.com.. Online condolences may be left at www.forbeshoffman.com.
