Ardith C. Bush

Ardith Corinn Lein was born in Wing, ND to Sophus and Maggie, joining brother Darrel. When she was four years old the family moved to Camas so Sophus could have a reliable job at Crown Zellerbach paper mill. Ardith was an exceptional student earning many accolades. At the age of ten, she became a big sister to Vaughn. She doted on him and helped raise him while their parents worked. After Camas High School, she attended Western Washington State College to become an educator. While at Western, mutual friends introduced her to another student, Clinton Bush. Post graduation, she taught in Nooksack Valley until she and Clint were married in June of 1961. They made their home in Aberdeen and she taught at Hoquiam High School. The family, now including two small children, moved to Vancouver in 1963. Ardith stayed home until their children entered school. The family gained another member when Clint's little sister moved in after their mother's death. Mrs. Bush started a long career team-teaching fifth and sixth grade at Minnehaha Elementary School in "The Unit." When Middle Schools began, she moved to the new Alki Middle School, that her brother Vaughn's Architect firm designed. After she retired, Ardith jumped into her Grandmother role. She adored her grandchildren and taught them many life skills. She was involved in most aspects of Messiah Lutheran Church, including two terms as President of the congregation. The Preschool was one of her favorite areas to assist. Following Clints passing, she continued to stay in their home and worked in her yard mostly to grow flowers. She loved flowers! Ardith was very accomplished at sewing, knitting, scrapbooking, card making, collecting Nativity scenes, baking, cooking and jelly making. She played bridge until her eyes failed her and traveled all over the world with her "Movie Group." Her 87 years were an amazing feat having had open heart surgery at age 40. She doctored well and took great care of herself. Unfortunately, a fall and broken vertebra was too much for her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Husband, brothers and grandson Seth Campbell. Survivors are: Children, Corinn Campbell (Victor Achziger), Darren Bush (Jo Anne). Special sister-in-law Evie Grendahl. Grandchildren: Rachael, Lydia and Dallas. Great-grandchildren: Caleb, Zachary, Emma, James, Henry, Arlo, Elias and another baby boy due in March. Special thanks to the Rickets for being the best neighbors ever. A Memorial service will be at Messiah Lutheran Church on October, 19th at 11:00. Contributions can be made in Messiah Lutheran Church/Ardith Bush Memorial.

Ardith C. Bush

May 5, 1937 - September 19, 2024