Mark was born December 13, 1972 in Tacoma, Washington and passed away November 17, 2023 in Merced, California.
Mark was adamant to live a full life on his terms. Mark wrote his own rules, challenged social norms, and paved his own way.
He is widely known as a passionate conversationalist, music visionary and innovative thinker. He was also a father who loved BBQing for his family, snuggling with his dog Domingo, and taking long drives into the country. He was a rare combination of complexity and simplicity.
Mark was acutely aware of the brevity of life. His choice to spend time doing what he loved with those he loved over any material possession was only trumped by his territorial attachment to his computer.
His regrets were few but above all wanted people to know he loved them and could depend on him. The last few years of his life were spent with his partner, Emily Casselman, who supported his artistic dreams and lovingly supported him along with his family during their last days together.
Mark grew up in a Military family and was able to live all over the world. He moved to Merced in 1981, and was currently a Musician and the Technical Director of the Playhouse Theater in Merced. During his life, he was in many bands, including Infestation, Flea Bitten Hippies, Day One, Zero Again, Early Empires and The Echoing.
Mark is survived by his Sons; Jayston Bush and Jett Macias; his Mother Sue Shepherd, Father Mark Bush Sr.; his partner and best friend Emily Casselman. He also leaves behind his sisters Robin Arguelles, Traci Strauss, and Amy Stone.
A Memorial ceremony for Mark will be Sunday, December 3, 2023 at 2:00 PM at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home, 1490 B Street, Merced, CA 95341, followed by a reception at the Funeral Home.
Contributions in Mark’s memory can be made to Playhouse Merced, 452 West Main Street Merced, California 95340.
Mark, we love you, miss you terribly and will find you in the stars.
