ROBERT IRWIN RUSH

April 20, 1930 - June 13, 2013
Robert (Bob) Irwin Rush, of Murrieta, California, died Thursday, June 13, 2013 at Rancho Springs Medical Center surrounded by his family. Bob struggled with a severe heart condition for many years and died at the age of 83. Born April 20, 1930, he was the son of Lloyd and Hilda Rush.

Bob was a General Manager for the City of Los Angeles, Department of Animal Regulation for over 22 years, retiring on May 5, 1992. Under his leadership, the Department of Animal Regulation became a forerunner in the field of humane animal care and control. He was responsible for managing the Department's six animal care and control centers, and during that time he implemented a training program for all animal control officers; created a dedicated volunteer group; established the first low-cost animal sterilization clinics; implemented a wildlife airlift program; established the first animal health technician program; and developed a computerized Animal Information System. He was truly an animal advocate and made the City of Los Angeles a kinder place for them. On a personal level, Bob was very involved with his family and his church.

He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Virginia Annette Rush; his three children, Jaimie Rush-Draper of Pomona, California, Sheryl Rush of Lakewood, California, and Katherine Rush of Murrieta, California; 4 grandchildren, Cole Draper, Allison Draper, Jane Draper and Antonio Ales; and many other loving relatives.

The memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 22, 2013 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at 2645 Amherst Street, La Verne, CA 91750 at 10am.