Obituary of Theodosia Clara Bush

Theodosia [Teddie] Bush, our cherished mother, passed away Thursday, January 30, in Sarnia, just weeks after her 90th birthday.  Mom was born in Albany, New York, and excelled at school.  After marrying the love of her life, Louis Bush, she immigrated to St. Thomas where they raised eight children.  They were the best parents, willing to make any sacrifice in order to give us every opportunity in life.

Mom was a tough, determined woman. Nothing was too difficult, whether it was typing up our essays, driving everyone all over town for activities, or picking tomatoes to pay for our piano lessons.  She loved playing bridge with Dad and many a night was spent “discussing” various hands.  At weddings, Mom and Dad could burn up the floor with their polkas, although Mom liked to be the one to lead.  They could be found down on the floor playing tea parties or cars with the grandkids. Mom had a dry sense of humour which she passed on to her grandkids.When Dad passed away in 1992, an unfillable void was left in Mom’s life and she decided to move to Sarnia to be closer to some of her children.

Mom lived in the Kenwick building and spent many an afternoon playing cards at the Seniors’ Centre and later at Strangway.  Mom also enjoyed day programs at Marshall Gowland and later Trillium.  Despite suffering several strokes, a broken hip, and short term memory loss, she pushed on.  She seemed unstoppable.  Even after her final stroke, she held on until all her children could make it to the hospital where we spent several days reliving memories. Although we are relieved that she is beyond pain now, it is hard to believe that she is gone.

Mom is survived by her children, Michael Bush, Mary-Lou Henry, Stephanie [Tony] Westelaken, Bernadette [Mark] Slotwinski, Chris [Madeline] Bush, Carolyn [Mitch] Krasinkiewicz, Barbara Dillon, and Jennifer [Trent] McIntee.  She also will be remembered by her grandchildren, Steve Henry, Kelly [Alex] Murphy, Greg [Mandy] Henry, Luke and Alexandra Westelaken, Matthew [Jessica] Slotwinski, Michael [Chelsea] Slotwinski, Michelle Slotwinski, Tyler, Dylan, and Taylor Krasinkiewicz, Kyle McIntee, and Hunter Dillon.  Seven great grandchildren will miss growing up with Mom.

Visitation Monday, February 3, 2025 from 9:00 - 9:45 a.m. at McKenzie & Blundy Funeral Home, 431 Christina St., N., Sarnia.  Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Lady of Mercy Church, 390 Christina St., N., Sarnia at 10:00 a.m. Monday, February 3, 2025 with interment to follow at Holy Angels' Cemetery in St. Thomas.

Mom, you will be forever in our hearts. Arrangements entrusted to the McKenzie & Blundy Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, 519-344-3131. Messages of condolence & memories may be left at www.mckenzieblundy.com.