Arnold J Rush

Arnold Joseph Rush. Aj (Pop) Rush passed peacefully in his home on 16 April 2016 in Miramar Beach, FL at the age of 63 following complications from lung cancer. Arnold was born in Baltimore, MD to Raymond and Betty Rush (née Blair) on October 5th 1952. He met his true love Wanda C Rush (née Sutton) at Severna Park High School and married her on May 15th 1971. Aj served for four years in the United States Navy as an Aviation Machinist's Mate working on jet engines while stationed in Pensacola, FL. He was honorably discharged in 1975 as a Petty Officer 3/C. Aj loved working with his hands and was an excellent painter. He spent many years operating his own painting company, Painting Express. Upon "retirement" he and Wanda moved to Florida and opened a Tropical Smoothie Cafe where everyone affectionately referred to him as "Pop." Aj's love for his Country, his family, and the beach never wavered. His greatest blessing and cherished treasures were his family who he adored spending time with and spoiling. In his spare time he enjoyed boating, fishing, and woodworking. Aj is survived by his wife of 44 years, Wanda Rush, his son, Shawn Rush of Panama City Beach, FL, his daughter, Michele Brown of Niceville, FL, and four grandchildren, Tj, Jamie, Cole, and Jessica. He is also survived by four brothers, Gregory Rush, Edward Rush, Joe Rush, and Bill Rush as well as one sister, Marcia Gibbons and a multitude of nieces, nephews, and close friends. Aj is preceded in death by his father, Raymond, and brother, Raymond Jr. In lieu of flowers his family requests donations be made to the Florida Hospice and Palliative Care Association.