Mr. Brian John Bouts was born on June 15, 1944 in Lansing, Michigan to Hugh Robert Bouts and Ruth Elizabeth White Bouts and was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Jean Ellen Bouts; daughter: Jennifer (Bill) Lee Boyd of Kirkland, Washington; son: Bruce Robert Bouts of McDonough; brother: Robert James Bouts of Sterling Heights, Michigan; sister: Rebecca (Larry) Elaine Doetsch of Royal Oaks, Michigan; niece: Catherine Bouts; nephew: Michael Bouts; and a host of cousins and friends. Brian grew up with the probably small town experience in DeWitt, Michigan in the 1950's: selling vegetables from the garden, having a paper route, being a Boy Scout, and participating in high school sports and band. He graduated second in his class at DeWitt High School. Brian graduated from Michigan State University in 1966 with a degree in Forensic Science. He was employed by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, State Crime Lab until his retirement. During that time, he analyzed blood alcohol levels, and various drugs. He then managed the then new Columbus Branch of the State Crime Lab from 1974 until 1989. At that time he became the Assistant Deputy Director of the State Crime Lab until his retirement. Brian had a strong sense of right and wrong and doing things the right way. He set high standards for himself and passed them on to those around him at work or otherwise. Family was important to him with yearly trips to Michigan and many camping trips with his family to various parts of the United States over the years. One regular trip to Michigan was for the annual deer hunting with his father and brother. He also enjoyed running and participated in many races and a few marathons. Brian was an active member of the United Methodist Church for over 50 years, more recently Wesley Way UMC in McDonough where he was a founding member in 2001 and handled treasury for seven years. He taught Sunday School Class and worked long hours in the community garden, supplying fresh food to "In HIs Name Food Pantry" and other local charities. He was an active member of the Wesley Way Ramblers, driving the van for 14 years. There was a strong belief in treating people right and a willingness to be of service. This was shown in his work with Special Olympics, where the "kids" would call him coach. The family will receive friends at Haisten Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 8, 2019 from 6:00PM - 8:00PM. Funeral services will be held at Wesley Way United Methodist Church on Wednesday, October 9, 2019 at 2:00PM with Rev. Michelle Strall officiating. The family will receive friends 30 minutes prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow at Eastlawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the American Tumor Association: 8550 W. Bryn Mawr Ave, Ste 550, Chicago, IL 60631, or Wesley Way UMC: P.O. Box 2890, McDonough, GA 30253.
