In the early morning hours of March 14, 2018, Jonathon “Jon” Joseph Rushford, joined his loved ones in heaven, just four days before his 40th birthday. He spent his last days surrounded by family and friends, who meant the world to Jon.
Jon was born to Steve and Ginny Rushford on March 18, 1978, in Helena, MT. He grew up in Townsend with his brother and sister, as well as many other family members and lifelong friends. Jon graduated from Broadwater High School in 1996, from there he went on to excel in mechanics and mining. He loved being able to work with his brothers, and later introduced his step-son and nephew to the mining industry. After spending 15 years in the mines, Jon is a hand that will be greatly missed. In July 2004 he was proud to introduce his son, Hayden Rushford into the world. While working at a mine in Idaho Jon met Teresa, the love of his life, and they quickly became inseparable. They joined their two families together, building a lifetime of memories.
Jon lived for hunting, fishing, camping, horn hunting, snow mobiling, and many other outdoor activities. Jon was almost always seen with either a Bud Light or Mountain Dew in his hand. One of his many passions was fixing trucks, but he loved purchasing them even more, and he rarely sold them. Jon was a mentor to several young boys, and found joy in teaching them the things he loved.
Jon always knew how to have a good time, whether it be “trailer trashing”, wearing his black suit, or sharing a bubble bath with friends. He enjoyed playing practical jokes and pranks more than most. One of his most memorable pranks was when Jon and Steve had their mother convinced she was under arrest on her camping trip. There was never a dull moment with Jon around.
Jon was preceded in death by: his stepson Branson Phelps, Grandmother Virginia Uncles, Grandparents Bonnie and Darrel Farmer, and Uncles Danny Rushford and Harold Uncles as well as a few close friends.
He is survived by: Wife Teresa Phelps-Rushford, Son Hayden Rushford, and Step Children: Erika Phelps, Lacy (Brandon) Miller, and Dacoda Phelps. Parents Steve and Ginny Rushford, Grandparents Wayne and Anne Miller, Siblings Steve (Nancy) Rushford, Michelle (Joe) McArthur, and Alla Smith. His Nieces and Nephews: Gina, Kelsey, Austin, Keana, Kayla, Jeorge, and Alysa. Grandchildren: Lakoda, Zagin, Kayson, Kenzley, and Jase, as well as many other family members.
Until we see you again Jon, have fun bone piling in the sky!!!
A memorial service will be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday March 24th at the fairgrounds in the 4H building, 189 Hwy 12, Townsend, Montana. The reception will immediately follow the service. If you wish to send flowers, the family requests you contact Broadwater Blooms, 415 Broadway St, in Townsend or call (406)266-3558. Memorials in honor of Jon are suggested to the “Benefit of John Rushford” mailed or delivered to the State Bank of Townsend, 400 Broadway St., Townsend, Mt 59644. Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Jon.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
2:00 p.m.
Saturday March 24, 2018
4H Building
189 Hwy 12
Townsend, Montana 59644
Reception
Immediately following the Memorial Service
Saturday March 24, 2018
4H Building
189 Hwy 12
Townsend, Montana 59644
Share
Kaysee Williams says
My heart goes out you all, my Rushford family. I’m deeply saddened for your loss of Jon. He was too young and full of life to be taken so soon?. Prayers and hugs your guys way. I love you all very much. ❤ kaysee
Renea Howard says
So sorry to hear of Jon’s passing. My heart hurts fir the whole family. Praying for peace for you all ?♥️
Holly says
I’m so sorry for your loss..Jon will be forever missed..My heart is broken..I love y’all very very much…Please don’t hesitate to call,text or message me if I can do anything at all. Fly high my dear friend..I love you!
Nathan and Carly May says
Our deepest sympathies to Jon’s family. May your hearts find a little comfort in knowing how much love is bing sent your way. We are so very sorry for your loss.
Nathan and Carly May and family
Steve and Cissy McArthur says
When Steve and I came to Townsend almost for years ago for our grandsons graduation, we met this whole new family that accepted us right away. On the plane ride back to Florida we knew we had to move back here which was only three months. We knew we had to be close to this amazing new family, the Rushfords and the McArthurs. Turned out that Jon became like a second son to us, next to his brother in law and best friend Joe McArthur. We love ❤ ya’ll dearly and are truly heartbroken we won’t have Jon around for all the wonderful times we have already shared. With Love, Steve and Cissy McArthur
Gretchen Boardman says
Enjoyed working at Elkhorn with you!!! You will be missed.
Israel says
My heart goes out to Jons family. You all are wonderful people and I can’t imagine how you feel. This goes without saying but Jon was an incredible man. Never mean or out to get anyone. Just lived life to the fullest. I only wish I had spent more time with him. But I’ve got great memories of him and his family. You all mean alot to me. I love you guys. We will see him again. Know that. Praying for you all in this hard time.
Dawn Piazzi says
Ginny and family- Sending love to you at this sad time.
Tami Dom says
I’m so very sorry and saddened by Jon’s passing. He was always so much help at the Townsend A&W, and his smile will not soon be forgotten. Much love to you all. Tami (Fetty)Dom.
Mike and Colleen Mason says
May God rest his hands on the entire Rushford family and bring peace and comfort to each of you.
Beth, Tony, Luke, Cain & Little Joe says
We love you Jon!