Everett Charles De Rousha

Everett Charles De Rousha, who was born on December 6, 1929, in Waterford, Michigan, and died on April 13, 2026, in Farmington Hills, Michigan, lived a long and remarkable life marked by service, hard work, humor, and devotion to the people and places he loved.

He was preceded in death by his first wife Cleo and his nephew Danny Hopkins. At the time of death, he was the husband of Carol, whom he married on August 10, 2002, in Waterford, Michigan. He was also father to Christina Taylor, grandfather to Shawn Lowry and Samantha Lowry, and great-grandfather to Shawn Lowry III and Ben Lowry. His family was an important part of his life, and he carried himself with the pride and affection of a man who deeply valued those closest to him. He also had a special place in his heart for his poodles, Pierre and Jacque, as well as his yorkie, Kippie, who brought him companionship and joy.

Everett served as a veteran of the United States Army during World War II, an accomplishment that reflected both his courage and his determination at a young age. In order to enlist, he lied about his age and joined the Army at just 16 years old, a decision that spoke to his strong will and sense of duty. He later shared stories from that time in his life with those who would listen, and he carried his memories of service with honesty and pride. His experiences during the war remained an important part of who he was, and he never lost the perspective that came from having lived through such a defining chapter in history.

Everett built a life centered on work, skill, and reliability. He worked as a truck driver and mechanic at Warren Trucking, where he began in 1988 and remained employed until the age of 95, never truly retiring. He continued helping at the business with odds and ends and with anything else he could do around the shop. He was the kind of man who could be counted on, and he took pride in being useful wherever he was needed.

Everett was widely known as a professional tinkerer, and he had the remarkable ability to fix almost anything. His hands were always busy, and his mind was always working on the next problem to solve. He enjoyed plowing snow and helping his neighbors, and he was often ready to lend a hand wherever one was needed. He had a reputation for being stubborn as a mule, but that stubbornness was matched by a generous spirit and a heart of gold. He was very kind, deeply generous, and always willing to help others, even when he did so in his own unmistakable way.

He had a wonderful sense of humor and a personality that lit up a room. Everett was funny, handy, and generous, and he was well known throughout the Waterford community. He enjoyed conversation and took pleasure in sharing stories, especially those from World War II. At times, if a conversation did not hold his interest, he would simply stand up and walk away, a habit that reflected his plainspoken nature and independent spirit.

In his free time, Everett enjoyed hunting deer and fishing at the property he had in Grayling, Michigan. He found satisfaction in the outdoors and in the simple pleasures of work, nature, and companionship. He lived a life shaped by resilience, practicality, and affection for the world around him. His legacy is one of service, loyalty, and good humor, and he will be remembered with love by his family, friends, neighbors, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Military Honors and prayers in memory and in honor of Everett will take place on Friday, May 1, 2026 at 9:30 AM in Great Lakes National Cemetery located at 4200 Belford Road, Holly, Michigan 48442.