Harry F. Mushrush

Harry F. Mushrush, 91, of New Philadelphia, died Friday, February 13, 2015 in Community Hospice House at New Philladelphia following a period of declining health.

A son of the late Arthur and Anna (Davis) Mushrush, Harry was born August 19, 1923 at New Philadelphia, Ohio.

Harry graduated from New Philadelphia High School in 1941 where he was a member of the football team coached by Woody Hayes. Two years later he enlisted with the United States Marine Corps and served during World War II and was stationed in the Aleutian Islands and Dutch Harbor, Alaska. He then received an honorable discharge on April 1, 1946.

He then met the love of his life, the former Lucille Rothacher. The couple were married on July 10, 1946 and together raised four children, Terry, Barb, Dave and Deb. The couple spent nearly 60 years together prior to Lucille’s passing on December 11, 2005.

In 1953, Harry founded New Phila Welding, Inc, which he operated until it’s closing after 50 years of service. In his younger years he was employed at Republic Steel at Massillon, Dover Tank & Plate and Truck Coal at Strasburg. Harry was also the owner and operator of the former Somerdale Tavern.

He was a longtime member of Otterbein United Methodist Church at New Philadelphia and was also a life member of the New Philadelphia V.F.W. Post #1445 and a member of the New Philadelphia Elks Lodge #510. He also regularly visited the YMCA.

Harry and Lucille enjoyed entertaining and hosting parties at their cabin in Sunset Valley. They were the host of the “Turtle Soup” for more than 25 years.

He is survived by his children, Barbara (Gib) Abel of New Philadelphia, David (Rose) Mushrush of New Philadelphia and Deb McDade of Dover; 12 grandchildren, Brian Abel of New Philadelphia, Brent (Taryn) Abel of New Philadelphia, Kelly Wise of Dover, Jason (Shanda) Mushrush of New Philadelphia, Devi (Joel) Herbert of Dover, Amber Pearch of New Philadelphia, Kenny Hinzman of Dover, Heather (John) Jones of Dennison, Lora (Harry) Best of Dennison, Christy Mushrush of Dennison, Todd Mushrush of Coshocton and Tracie (Andy) Milarcik of Tippecanoe; numerous great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren and a sister-in-law, Evelyn Mushrush of New Philadelphia.

Harry was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Lucille; a son, Terry Mushrush; a son-in-law, Richard McDade and a brother, Arthur “Pete” Mushrush.

Visitation will be held on Monday, February 16, 2015 from 2 to 6 p.m. in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia. A funeral service celebrating Harry’s life will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. in the funeral home with Pastor Brian Flood officiating. Burial will follow in East Avenue Cemetery at New Philadelphia.

Contributions may be made in Harry’s memory to the Buckeye Career Center Welding Program, 545 University Drive SE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663 or to Community Hospice of Tuscarawas County, 716 Commercial Avenue SW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.