ROUSE – E. Joe, 75, passed to his Heavenly Father at 11:12 p.m. on October 17, 2018, while surrounded by his family. Husband, father, papa and friend to many, he will be deeply missed. He is survived by: his loving wife, Linda Sue Rouse of 42 years; daughter, Kami Suggs and husband Brad Suggs; son, Kirk Rouse and wife Holly Rouse; son, Mitch Smith and wife Ginger Smith; son, Justin Rouse; 11 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, brothers Jack, Randy and Stephen Rouse. Born in Hornersville, MO, on May 22, 1943, Joe led and developed several successful companies in the trucking industry for over 40 years. He worked hard, smart and cared for his team that contributed to that success. The long-standing relationships he maintained in the trucking industry were paramount to him and still stand today. He could drive the wheels off anything, from tractors as a young boy working the cotton fields in Southeast Missouri, cars, trucks, and in his retirement years, boats on Table Rock lake. Joe most enjoyed the time with his family during the holidays, at the lake and Florida beaches and especially with his sons at their deer camp he built from the ground up. With his quick wit, humor and strong will to protect there was never a dull moment being with him. He loved the Lord and shared that love with his family. He was a strong man, heart attack survivor, cancer survivor and fought hard until his Heavenly Father called him home to be with his mother Marie and father E.J. Rouse in Heaven. We will truly miss him.
Service will be at 2 p.m. Monday, October 22, 2018 at Greenlawn Funeral Home East with interment to follow at Rivermonte Memorial Gardens.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Greenlawn Funeral Home East, 3540 E. Seminole, Springfield, Missouri 65809. (417-887-6565)