W. O. Bush, one of the oldest and most famous pioneers of the state of Washington, died at midnight last night at St. Peter's hospital. With his two brothers who survive him, Mr. Bush was one of the oldest settlers of the territory of Washington, having located in Thurston county in 1845. Closely identified with the history of the country which he helped to carve from the wilderness, Mr. Bush in later life won fame for himself and the county by his exhibit of cereals grown in this county which won gold medals in competition with the world at the Centennial exposition, the Chicago worlds' fair, the Buffalo exposition and the St. Louis exposition. Probably no resident of the state or territory throughout its history has done more to advertise the state than W. O. Bush.

Mr. Bush has been in poor health for a number of years, through constitutional ailments attending old age, and a few days ago he was brought to the hospital. He gradually sank until the end came peacefully last night.

With his father, mother, and brothers, W. O. Bush crossed the plains from Missouri in 1844, reaching Bush prairie in this county the following year. W. O. Bush was a native of Missouri, having been born there in 1832. He has resided continually in Thurston county since moving here. His wife died several years ago. He is survived by two children, Mrs. George Gaston, of this city, and John S. Bush. Two of his brothers, Louis and H. S. Bush, also survive him.
Morning Olympian
Feb 14, 1907
page 1


The funeral of W. O. Bush, the well known pioneer, who died Wednesday evening at St. Peter's hospital, will be held from the family residence at Bush prairie Saturday morning at 11 o'clock. Interment will be in the Bush prairie cemetery.
Morning Olympian
Feb 15, 1907
page 5