Robert C. Bush, 68, residing in Niles, passed away at 11:45 a.m. Friday, Nov. 27, 2009 at home.

He was born Dec. 28, 1940 in Mishawaka, the son of the late Herman and Iola (VanWilder) Bush, and has remained a lifelong resident of the area.

Robert is survived by a son, Richard A. Bush, of Niles; two grandchildren, Emilie and Erika Bush; one sister, Bonnie (Barry) Nothstine, of Michigan City, Ind.; and one brother, Ray (Mona) Bush, of Mishawaka. He is also survived by special nieces and nephews, Josh Crose, Ray Bush Jr., Steven Bush, Tami Carter, Lori Nothstine, Barry Nothstine, Jr., Jim Robison and Tina Robison.

Robert was preceded in death by two sisters, Sharon Robison and Betty Lou Bush.
Robert retired as a mail carrier at the Mishawaka branch of the U.S. Postal Service. He was an avid Nascar fan, attending many races and enjoying watching races on TV. He also enjoyed many fishing and hunting trips to northern Michigan and to Lake Erie. He was a very special friend to all that he knew and will be sadly missed by all.

Funeral services for Robert will be 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2009 at Palmer Funeral Home, Hickey Chapel, 17131 Cleveland Rd., South Bend. The Rev. Greg Crump will officiate.

Private burial will be held at a later date at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park, Granger. The family will receive friends from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

The family would especially like to thank Southern Care Hospice and many friends for all their care and support during Robert’s illness.

Memorial contributions in honor of Robert may be made to Southern Care Hospice, 4341 S. Westnedge Ave., Suite 2100, Kalamazoo, MI 49008. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.