Richard D. Bush

MISSOULA ~ Richard D. Bush, 83, of Missoula, passed away Thursday, July 30, 2026.

Richard was born on June 12, 1943, in Inglewood, California. When he was seven years old, his family moved to Torrance, California, where he spent much of his youth.

On December 5, 1964, Richard went on his first date with 17-year-old Donna Alldis, the woman who would become the love of his life. Just a few months later, on March 2, 1965, Richard was drafted into the United States Army. Richard and Donna were married on July 3, 1965, beginning a marriage that would span more than six decades. The following Friday, Richard received orders sending him to Vietnam.

Richard proudly served his country during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Vung Tau, Vietnam, where he served as an Army supply clerk. His military service and love of the USA remained an important part of his life.

Richard and Donna recently celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary. Together, they built a life centered around family, faith, hard work, adventure, and countless shared memories. Over the years, they enjoyed cruising in their custom cars, trips to the beach, time at the lake, boating, waterskiing, car shows, church activities, and, most of all, spending time with their children and growing family.

Richard was the owner of an auto body shop and was known for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and perfectionism in his craft. He had a lifelong passion for custom cars and especially loved his lowered 1951 Mercury with a chopped top and shaved door handles. He was also an active member of the BitterRodders Car Club in Hamilton, Montana.

Those who knew Richard, or “Dick” as many called him, will remember his sense of humor, memorable one-liners, endless stories, love of boating and waterskiing, unique custom cars, and the big smile he brought into a room. He had a gift for turning almost any conversation into a story and often another story after that.

Above all, Richard loved his family deeply and took great pride in watching each generation grow.

Richard is survived by his wife, Donna; his sons, Jeff and Tiffany Bush, and David and Kristen Bush; his grandchildren, Justin and Amanda Bush, Jacob Bush, Joel Bush, Jace Bush, Cassidy and Thomas Burkholder, Morgan and Caleb Rock, and Beau Bush and his fiancée, Miella Struble; and his great-grandchildren, Jax, Harlan, and Camille.

Richard was preceded in death by his brother, Dennis Bush, and Dennis’s wife, Linda. He is also lovingly remembered by their children and extended family, including Gina and Keith Hellyer, Luke Bush, and Summer and Clifton Williams.

Richard will be remembered for his love of family and friends, his patriotism, his entrepreneurial spirit, his passion for cars, his humor, and his faith in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

A small military burial service will be held on Wednesday, August 12, at 11:00 a.m. at the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery.

Family and friends are invited to honor Richard’s memory by sharing a favorite story, photograph, or remembrance of a life that touched so many.

His stories, laughter, encouragement, love, and legacy will continue through the family and friends who were blessed to know him.

Arrangements are under the care of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory in Missoula.