Ronald G. Brush

1938 - 2024

Ronald Gerald Brush, 86, passed away on Dec. 21, 2024, at River Ridge Assisted Living Home, South Haven. Ron was born on Sept. 5, 1938, to Forrest and Flora (Bailey) Brush in South Haven.

Ron grew up in Casco Township with five brothers, one of which, was his twin. Growing up, Ron enjoyed hunting, swimming and working on their family farm. Ron went to Hadaway School until seventh grade in Casco Township. Entering eighth grade, he attended South Haven and graduated from South Haven High School.

Ron met his wife, Patricia, in his early teens. Both living in Casco Township and attending the same school. Ron and Pat wed in 1959. They were blessed to be together for 65 years of marriage. Ron continued to work hard in the agriculture field and for Bohn Aluminum. Ron was the backbone and instrumental in growing the Brush Centennial Farm. An outdoor enthusiast, Ron found solace and excitement in the beauty of nature.

He was an avid hunter and enjoyed snowmobiling. He relished the time spent in the great outdoors. He enjoyed golfing with his wife, children and grandchildren. Ron was proud of accomplishing two hole-in-ones. Ron was adventurous and handy. He had a knack for fixing things as most farmers do. Ron "Papa" enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Ron was a member of the Kellogg Foundation, a group of farmers who studied farming in underdeveloped countries. After studying at Michigan State University, he traveled abroad and taught area farmers useful farming techniques. Ron was also a member of the South Haven/Casco Fire Department for 13 years, serving as chief and volunteer. He enjoyed volunteering with Habitat for Humanity and Food Banks.

Ron is survived by his wife, Patricia; two children: Rodney (Jane) Brush, Tony (Karen) Brush. Ron was a proud and loving grandfather to Tara (Jason) Kohn, Nate (Lizzie) Brush, Kelli Brush, Kevin Markovich, Ryan (Jenna) Brush, Chris (Sierra) Brush, Sarah (Sam) Elliott, Ben (McKenzie) Matthews, Kyle Matthews. Ron adored his great-grandchildren: Weston Brush, Whitley Brush, Jackson Kohn, Emma Kohn, Kacey Brush, Emmy Brush, Carter Brush, Olivia Brush, Gemma Matthews and one brother, Roger (Eunice) Brush.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents: Forrest and Flora Brush; four brothers: Ray (Betty) Brush, William (Helen) Brush, Leon (Patsy) Brush, Alan (Kay) Brush and one sister, Arlene Brush.

Visitation for Ron will be Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, from 11 a.m. until the time of his memorial service at noon at Casco United Methodist Church, 880 66th St., South Haven, MI 49090. Pastor Christine Fleming will be officiating. A lunch will be held at the church following the service. Ron will be laid to rest in McDowell Cemetery at a later date.

Please consider making a donation in memory of Ron to Casco United Methodist Church. Those wishing to share a memory of Ron online may do so at www.starksfamilyfh.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Filbrandt Chapel – Starks Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, 269-637-0333.