Chad Rouse

Chad Nicholas Rouse was born on February 8, 1986, in Kokomo, Indiana. A lifelong Hoosier, Chad was rooted in his community — he attended Kokomo High School and later worked for the City of Kokomo in the parks maintenance department, where he took pride in contributing to the places his neighbors enjoyed.

Chad loved being among familiar faces and family. He was the son of Frank D. Rouse and Athena L. (Barkdull) Rouse and is remembered by his longtime companion, Trisha Nicole Wines. He is survived by his mother Athena and father Frank, his sister Heather Rouse, half-sister Holly Rouse, and his niece Kaidence Rouse, along with grandparents Sue McCallum, Gary York, and Frank Rouse Sr., and an extended circle of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who valued his presence.

Those who knew Chad recall a young man who showed up for work and for family, who cared for the everyday responsibilities that sustain community life, and who belonged to a close-knit circle of loved ones. His family noted the important place he held in their lives, and the support he gave to those around him.

Chad passed away on November 15, 2006, in Kokomo. Funeral services were held at Ellers Mortuary, Webster Street Chapel, with burial in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends and family were received the evening before services to celebrate his life and to share memories.

Chad’s life is remembered for the steady, practical ways he was present for his community and family. Though his time was short, the ties he formed in Kokomo — at work, at home, and among friends — remain a part of the city he called home. He is dearly missed by those who knew him and loved him.