We lost the light in our world when Julie Beth (nee Meyer) Rush passed from this life to her heavenly eternal home on Wednesday, September 13, 2023. She is our beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend, and the world was made more lovely, and lively, by her presence in our lives. Julie was born on Jan 28, 1962, the third child of J. Andrew and Lucille (Chelf) Meyer, and grew up in Wheeler graduating from Wheeler High School and subsequently earned her bachelor’s in business management. She was formerly employed at Porter Memorial Hospital and Southlake Methodist Hospitals as a phlebotomist, before transferring to Quest Diagnostics where she furthered her education and rose to become a Phlebotomy Supervisor. She worked for Quest until becoming ill with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, which disabled her and ultimately took her life.
On June 7, 1980 she married the love of her life, Don Rush, and they made their home in Valparaiso. He and their two children, Chivonne Rush (Johnny Cruse) and Sean (Alexis) Rush, survive, along with her beloved grandchildren: Keegan Hurst and Eleanor Rush. Also surviving are her siblings: Charlotte Smith, Phyllis Lyons, Jan Lute, Dan (Sue) Shook, and Mary Ann Meyer (Jim) Jones; her brother-in-law, Richard (Penny) Rush, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who were “like family.” She was preceded in death by her parents; her mother- and father-in-law, Pat and Ron Rush; her brothers: Mark, John, Bob and Jim Meyer, Jay Duane Shook; her sisters: Joan Meyer and Loretta (Meyer) Patterson; and her sister-in-law, Linda Eisenmenger.
She was a long-time active member of St. Paul Church in Valparaiso, where she served in the Life Teen youth program and with Christ Renews His Parish. She was first in line to help when someone was sick, needed a meal, or anything else she could offer. She was selfless and positive and present for family and friends in whatever need improved their lives. She had a spirit of joyfulness, compassion, humor, an understanding heart, an open and confidential ear, and a willingness to give of herself. She was the first to be invited to a party because of her fun and engaging personality, and often the last to leave, because she stayed to help the host clean up.
Moeller Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements, where visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 19th from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM. Funeral Mass at St. Paul Catholic Church will begin on Wednesday, September 20th at 10:00 AM with Fr. Doug Mayer officiating. Her cremains will be interred at Angelcrest Cemetery in Valparaiso. Memorials may be made to VNA Hospice of Northwest Indiana https://www.vnanwi.org/, or Miracle for Mom - Miracle For Mom is a 501(c)3 non-profit foundation dedicated to raising awareness and providing hope for debilitating brain diseases. https://www.miracleformom.org/
GUESTBOOK
My heart is with your family. I only met Julie once and yet that one time made an impact on me; a lovely impact. I am so very sorry for your loss. With love, -Beni Miller
My deepest condolences to the family of Julie Rush. Julie was a great friend and mentor. Julie put in a path toward success and believed in me. I am glad I called Julie my friend. Heaven sure does have a good one. -Tammy Falbo
Julie was a total love. She lite up every room she entered. I loved working with her. She became a best friend in every sense. We worked hard and laughed hard. She was a real friend in troubled times. Her compassion was just one of her beautiful elegant qualities. I have missed her a lot since my move to Arizona but I have never forgotten our precious time together. -Victoria. Mcknight
Saddened to read of the loss of Julie. Growing up in Wheeler she was a sweet friend and her smile and laugh were infectious. My heartfelt condolences to each of you. May she enjoy her Heavenly inheritance. -Betty Ann Buergler-Franz
We were so very sorry to read of Julie's passing. She was a sweet person, who was loved by everyone as soon as they met her. Wish we had been closer. Don, we know how much you will miss her. May great memories always keep her close in your heart. God bless you and your family is our prayer. -Gene and Sandy Bedka
Our thoughts and prayers to Don, Chivonne, Sean and the extended family. Julie was not just a neighbor, but a Great Friend with the kindest heart and beautiful smile. Don was such a great caregiver for his beautiful wife, Julie! We will miss Julie, the memories will never be forgotten! Rest in peace dear friend! Love and miss you so much! Mark and Kathy Horvat!
