Dear Sandy and Family,
Don was working for FMS back in the 90's on a project with the IRS that kept us constantly in touch. He was such a pleasant person to work with, always smiling, with nothing seeming to rattle him. It would have been nice to know him outside of work because clearly he was an entertaining man. Take comfort in knowing that others share in your loss.

Sorry to hear of Don's passing.  I worked with him for 7 years at Treasury and enjoyed his intelligence, warmth and spirit.  He taught me many things about being a professional.

I knew Don for more than 50 years, from when we were both beginners on our instruments. I am not without opinions, but I don't remember ever disagreeing with him about anything. He was a kind man. I wish I had made more time to be with him.

I've had the pleasure of knowing Don since he became a member of Arlington Independent Media over 10 years ago.  Don's presence will be sorely missed at AIM.  He was an active and talented volunteer as well as a prolific community producer.  Personally, I will miss our many engaging conversations on topics ranging from social justice and politics to pop culture, and of course, music.  RIP Don Rouse.

It was a pleasure seeing & working with Don at the AIM studios! He'll surely be missed and my thoughts are with the family today. May your fond memories give you great comfort and peace.

Mr. Rouse was a towering and constant presence during my teenage years. And he towered over me in adulthood. But I doubt he ever looked down on anyone, even those he disagreed with. He took me to baseball games, welcomed me into his home, and supported me long after I left the neighborhood. 

A few years ago, friends of the Rouses (and fellow musicians) housed and fed me, a stranger, for a month at Mr. and Mrs. Rouse's request alone. The Rouses came up to visit, of course. Don Rouse was a generous and good man.

I had the honor of working with Don for many years - he had tremendous integrity, a great sense of humor, and, of course, was a very dedicated employee.  He was ALWAYS very kind and cared deeply about his family, friends, and colleagues.  Work was way more interesting and fun when Don was in the room!
Sincere condolences to his family.

I treasure the time I was Don's physical therapist, because I had him all to myself for one hour a week!  We talked about kids and grand kids and how blessed we are to have such great families.  Our families were friends for 26 years, and that will continue and always be special.

I knew Don nearly 35 years - his gentleness and musicianship were special.  Thoroughly knowledgeable, he had his own style - not something you find every day.

Rain or shine, Don was at the polls to chat up the Green ballot, especially if there were long lines, and always with a generous civic spirit that defied rough partisanship. During those great 1991-94 W&L baseball years, nobody was a more astute fan. And at his concerts, you learned a reason he had such a ready smile, because you just couldn't restrain the grins while listening to his music. As a conversationalist, he never ceased to amaze with his recitation of obscure but fascinating information.

Don will be dearly missed. We remember the time he played at Tony Packo's in Toledo, Ohio and just joined in with his clarinet like he played there all the time.  I am sure he is teaming up with Louie Armstrong at this minute.  His light will always shine brightly.
Mark and Shirley Miller

We will miss Don at AIM.  He was such a talented member of our shows, and so very nice.  My condolences to all of you.

You will be sorely missed by all.  Don is playing his GREAT clarinet up there with the angels.  Don't know a duet with his clarinet and harp will sound but maybe they trade a harp for a wash board. RIP DON

OBITUARY

John Donald Rouse Jr.

May 5, 1937 – September 10, 2013

Murphy Funeral Homes

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