Fred William Bush

Fred was born April 16th, 1937 in Collbran, CO and raised mostly in Colorado Springs. Typical boy, his friends and all their dogs would go hunting, fishing, playing war games, learning to swim in irrigation ditches and during the winter playing hockey on those same irrigation ditches. He was in Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Boys Club. While playing ball in 6th grade Fred was asked to attend Baseball practice at South Jr. High School. That would be the beginning of the “First Love”, Baseball. He had the joy of pitching through High School, (1955 State Champions), Men’s Semi Pro in Colorado Springs and many softball and baseball leagues through the years.

Fred graduated from Palmer High School in 1955. After graduation he worked for the Colorado Springs Water Department for 4 years. During this time, he met his future wife, Carole Centlivre. They were married in May 1959. They had 2 daughters, Lori Ann and Jodi Lynn. In 1963, Fred packed a U-Haul with all their belongings and moved his family to California where he attended College classes at night. An instructor, recognizing his talents, arranged employment at North American Aviation (later known as Rockwell INT and then Boeing) where he worked for 25 years in Facilities and Planning. This job led to another of his many loves, Military Aircraft and Aerospace Hardware. He encountered the T-6 Trainer, P-51 Mustang, F-85, F-86, F-100 Experimental FSW-X37, Apollo Space Capsule, Shuttle and his favorite, the B1-B Bomber!

Fred was a “Guy’s Guy” and would rarely be seen in public without a baseball cap on his head. Baseball was #1 to Fred, but he enjoyed all sports! While living in California he started playing golf. Like most men, he was addicted! Fred was also very artistic which seemed to be a genetic quality in his family. One of his endeavors being wood working. Give him a piece of wood and those “big hands” would make something beautiful and precise.

After his retirement Fred returned to the mountains he so treasured. Although his multiple health problems prevented him from being physical, just the ability to be in the presence of the majestic beauty of his beloved, Rocky Mountains meant everything!

Fred was known for his clever and quick wit, his mischievous smile and twinkle in his eyes. Ever present was his deep passion for animals, most especially, dogs.

He will be deeply missed.

Fred is survived by his wife of 60 years Carole, daughters Lori Bush and Jodi Bush. Also survived by his brother Thomas Bush.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project of Colorado Springs or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.