GERRY RUSH – CLASS OF 1953

Rush, Gerald L “Gerry” of Converse, Texas

1930 – 2016

Gerry Rush, age 85, of Converse, Texas passed away on Wednesday, August 3, 2016.

He was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on August 5, 1930 to Alta Billig and Michael Vollenweider. At the age of 12 he was adopted by Elmer Rush who had married Alta and became Gerald Elmer Rush. Later, he changed it to Gerry Rush.

Gerry is survived by his wife Beverly; sons, Gerry Rush, Jr., David Rush; daughters, Heidi Rush and Diann Lehmann; stepchildren, Jackie Beady and Adam Lisinski, and many grandchildren.

Previously married to Audrey Rush Gamble who raised their children while Ranger Rush was serving his country. She did an awesome job. Gerry graduated from Hammond High then went on to go to Western Michigan University where he was in ROTC.

In 1952 they asked for volunteers to go to Korea and were promised they would graduate with their class. After getting back, he joined the Navy where, unfortunately, he broke both arms. He then joined the Army and made it his career.

He was a Green Beret, graduated from Ranger School Class 10, June, 1956; went to Viet Nam for 4 tours and decided to retire before a fifth tour.

He then moved his family to California where he worked on game shows, also worked on the Dean Martin Show for many years.

He also played Gabby Hayes in a German TV series. Dressed as Gabby, Elvis and even a hobo in parades for the Converse Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association of which both he and his wife Bev graduated from in 2007.

He and his wife did a lot for Wounded Warriors at Fort Sam Houston and have made some great lifetime friends. Other accomplishments are too numerous to mention. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. He gave us all a lot of laughs and joy.