Mark Edward Rush

RANDOLPH – Mark Edward Rush, loving husband, father, brother, and friend, peacefully passed away on June 13, 2023, surrounded by his closest family. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and warm memories that will forever be held in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born on Sept. 4, 1956, to James & Erma Rush of Island Falls, Mark entered this world with a spirit that would touch the lives of many. Throughout his 66 years of life, he embraced each day with his sightly irreverent humor and an unwavering dedication to his friends and family.

Core to Mark’s life was his role as a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 38 years, Karol Rush. Their marriage was an inspiration to many, serving as a testament to the power of a strong and enduring partnership built on a foundation of love.

Mark was also a loving father to his two sons, Richard and Daniel, and their families. He instilled in them the values of integrity, kindness, and most importantly continuously offered a shining example of how to be a great person. Mark’s unwavering support and encouragement were instrumental in their lives. In addition, Mark cherished his grandchildren above all else – Lincoln, Daxton, Emery, Jameson, Harper and Miles were a constant source of joy and the recipients of abundant love and affection from “Gingah” or “Grampa” as he was called by his grandchildren.

In addition to his immediate family, Mark is survived by his sister, Louise Burns and her husband Joe, his brother, Daniel Rush and his wife Betsy and his sister Cathe Agronick. The bond between siblings is a special one, and Mark cherished the close-knit relationships he shared with his sisters and brother. Their mother Erma would be proud to know that her vision for her family and children not only came true, but still serves as an example for all of those around them. Through thick and thin, they stand by one another, offering support, love, and ready laughter. He is also survived by his beloved Aunt Lela Meyers who was a mother like figure to Mark in his formative years and throughout his life.

Any memorial for Mark would be incomplete without mention of his incredible friendships. Core to Mark was his love for people and throughout the years many have loved him back. To this day he has friendships that date back to his childhood and helped teach and confirm those around him that love is not exclusive or finite. There are many who loved Mark, and equally as many who were loved by him and brought immeasurable joy to his life until the end. While Mark gave as good as he got in these relationships, it is fair to say that Mark was a lucky man.

Professionally Mark enjoyed a long career in the mental health field. He embraced a personal mission to improve the lives of those who needed advocates in this space. Most recently Mark concluded his career working at the Break of Day Mental Health Group and could not have been more proud to work with Amber Lavigne and her team.

Mark will forever be remembered for consistent humor, his infectious smile, his warm and compassionate nature, and his ability to bring joy to those around him. He had a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His genuine kindness and generosity knew no bounds, and he made it a priority to uplift and support others in their times of need.

As we bid farewell to Mark, we took comfort in the knowledge that he will continue to live on in the hearts and memories of those who loved him. His legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to friends and family will forever guide and inspire us.

Visitation hours will be from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at the Staples Funeral home in Gardiner on Thursday, June 22. A service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday June 23 also at Staples, followed by a graveside committal at the Oak Grove Cemetery in Gardiner. A celebration of Mark’s life will be held on the afternoon of June 23 at the Pittston Fair Grounds.

Mark, Dad, your absence leaves a void that can never be filled, but your smile, laugh and steady voice will forever be with us. May you rest in eternal peace.

Arrangements are entrusted with Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website, http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that all friends and family bring copies of your favorite photos of Mark to share