Carl “Dean” Bush of Carbondale, Illinois, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2025, at Memorial Hospital in Carbondale, surrounded by the love of his devoted family. Dean was 85 years old.
Born on December 19, 1939, in Williamson County, Illinois, Dean was the beloved son of the late Robert “Carl” and Mable “Maxine” (Batson) Bush. From a young age, Dean carried with him a strong work ethic, a deep love for his family, and an unmatched generosity that would come to define his life.
Dean proudly served our country with honor, and his sense of duty and commitment carried over into every facet of his life. His passion for drag racing led him to become the B/Gas National Champion—a title he held with pride. He was a man who lived life in the fast lane but always made time to slow down for those he loved.
For over 50 years, Dean owned and operated Dean Bush Construction Company, building a lasting reputation of integrity, hard work, and craftsmanship. Over the years, he developed two mobile home parks, owned and managed numerous rental properties, and laid thousands of miles of water line throughout Southern Illinois, leaving a legacy that is literally built into the landscape of the region.
Dean was also a mentor to many—offering not just guidance in business and construction, but also life lessons rooted in honesty, grit, and compassion. His impact shaped countless lives, and his door (or garage) was always open to anyone in need of advice, encouragement, or simply a helping hand.
When he wasn’t working, Dean found joy in the simple things: tinkering in his garage, sharing stories, lending tools, or spending time with his cherished family. His heart was as big as his smile, and his generosity knew no limits.
Dean’s greatest joy came from his family. He leaves behind his loving wife, Mary Ann Bush of Carbondale; children Lyndell “Lynn” Dean Bush and wife Jan of Carbondale, and Robert Brian Bush (Judy Griffith), also of Carbondale; grandchildren Shelby Jaleigh (Adam Lisiewski), Leyton Dean (Jessica), Hannah Kaye, Abigail Shannon (Cameron Kistner), Emma Lynne Bush, and Maci Faith Escue; great-grandchildren Lincoln Dean Bush and Charlotte Fae Bush; stepson Scott Escue and wife Mickellynn of Cobden; sister-in-law Harlene Lacy; and countless dear friends who were like family.
Dean was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Maxine Bush, and his first wife, Shannon Sims Bush. Though they are gone, their love lives on in the stories, laughter, and cherished memories that Dean carried with him always.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home in Carbondale. A celebration of Dean’s life will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 27, 2025, also at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest at Wolf Creek Cemetery immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorials be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105) or Shriners Hospital for Children (4400 Clayton Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63310), two causes close to Dean’s giving heart.
Dean Bush was a man of strength, kindness, and unwavering love. He was a loyal husband, a devoted father and grandfather, a skilled craftsman, a champion racer, a self-made businessman, and a true friend. His presence was a gift, and his absence will be deeply felt. But the legacy of love, laughter, and leadership he leaves behind will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Rest easy, Dean. You’ve built a beautiful life—and your light will shine on forever.
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