ROBERT C. ROUSE
Nov. 3, 1925-Jan. 18, 2011
LAGRANGE -- Robert Channing "Bob" Rouse, 85, LaGrange, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2011, at his home.
Bob was born Nov. 3, 1925, in Lenoir County to the late John H. Rouse Sr. and Willie Croom Rouse.
Bob proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II, where he was a gunner's mate aboard the Destroyer Escort USS Brister.
Following service to his country, Bob attended Campbell University, where he played on the football team. Bob spoke fondly of his time at Campbell and playing under Coach Earl Smith.
Bob later attended Wake Forest University and New York University.
Bob began his working career with the Texas Oil Co., and later worked as a sales representative with Clark Grave Vault Co. in Columbus, Ohio, for 42 years. Bob served funeral directors through Clark Grave Vault in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and Maryland.
Bob enjoyed a long association with Rouse Funeral Home, that began at the age of 12 when he followed in the footsteps of his father and brothers. Bob enjoyed his work as a funeral director, and took great comfort in helping families through difficult periods in their lives.
Bob formerly served his community as a council member with the town of LaGrange, was recently honored as LaGrange Citizen of the Year and was an active member of First Free Will Baptist Church in Goldsboro.
A service of remembrance will be held Friday, Jan. 21, 2011, at 11 a.m. at Rouse Funeral Home, with the Rev. Jerry Mitchell officiating. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery.
Bob is survived by his wife of 43 years, Jo Rouse; two children, Reid Rouse and wife, Crissy, of LaGrange and Channing Freeman and husband, Andy, of The Woodlands, Texas; and four grandchildren, Alex Lukefahr, Reagan Lukefahr, Robert Channing Rouse II and Everett Rouse.
The family will receive friends Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Rouse Funeral Home, and at other times they will be at the home.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.
Memorials may be made to First Free Will Baptist Church, 604 E. Ash St., Goldsboro, N.C., 27530.
Arrangements are with Rouse Funeral Home of LaGrange.
(Pd)
Published in Obituaries on January 20, 2011 1:48 PM