For the push-rod to drop, the button pictured above must have come unscrewed and popped out into oblivion.
If it broke off at the groove (not uncommon) the push-rod would not have dropped.
I don't believe you will have to remove the deck to push the rod back up into place but a third hand would be very helpful.
I can't remember what the thread count is on the end of the push-rod (maybe 5/16-24)
but a few years back I made one work by filing down the corners on a coupling nut enough to fit into the lever shaft and screw it onto the push-rod.
Then screw a bolt down into the top of the coupling nut to jam against the push-rod. The exposed bolt head is your push button.
You won't have that little locking button but at least your lift lever will work.
Hopefully you didn't also lose the spring too.
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