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New Mexico State University University of Texas

Bruce Rouse Obituary

Family-Placed Obituary

Bruce Rouse His family, and the folk music community, lost a leading light, Bruce Rouse, on the afternoon of February 26, 2005. Bruce Rouse was born on September 17, 1942, in Sault Ste Marie, Canada. He married his life-long dance partner, Liz Deans, on February 14, 1962, and they came to the United States in 1966. Bruce earned his BS at the University of Guelph, Canada, in 1966, and a Master's in Zoology, at New Mexico State University, in 1969. He gained a Phd. in Zoology at the University of Texas at Austin in 1972. As a Research Scientist, overseeing UT's Petroleum Engineering Laboratories, Bruce worked to solve the tough questions of ecology and soil reclaimation. He continued this invaluable work even after his retirement from UT in August, 2004. As a passionate devotee of acoustic music, who had gotten so much from the music community, Bruce labored joyfully to give back to that community, by supporting his favorite artists, known and unknown, and fostering an ever-expanding acoustic music scene, here in Texas and across North America. Bruce and Liz hosted concerts in their North Austin home for 15 years, until their recent move to Sun City, Georgetown. Over the years, hundreds of artists and thousands of folk music fans gathered at the Rouse House Concerts, to enjoy and celebrate music and friendships. Bruce also mentored other acoustic concert promoters, encouraged novice songwriters and performers, and proselytized for folk music, whenever and wherever he could. He served on the Folk Alliance's Board of Directors and directed seminars on house concerts at the world-famous Kerrville Folk Festivals, where he and Liz were always in attendance. Together, they sponsored a regular Songwriters' Breakfast Circle, and last year created Canadian Day at the Festival. Bruce was a well-rounded man, avidly supporting Longhorn sports, interested in politics, literature, photography, cultures, and people. He was a personable, gregarious man, with an open heart, a winning smile, and an impish sense of humor. He and Liz loved to dance, to travel, to visit and brag about their grandchildren. Bruce leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Liz; his daughter, Deb Rouse, and son-in-law, Lindsey Lee; his daughter, Janet Kisler, son-in-law, Bron Kisler, and beloved grandchildren, Bella and Gabriel; and a huge host of friends. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 1, 2005, at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 2, 2005, at Weed-Corley-Fish Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to SIMS Foundation, 2306 Lake Austin Blvd., Austin, Texas 78703 or to the American Heart Association, Attn: Memorials and Tributes Department, P.O. Box 15186, Austin, Texas 78761. Friends and musicians are asked to gather at Live Oak Unitarian, 3315 El Salido Parkway, near RR 620, for a song circle and celebration, following the services. Casual attire.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Austin American-Statesman from Feb. 28 to Mar. 1, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Bruce Rouse

Sponsored by a Rouse House fan.

55 Entries

Betty Baugh

March 13, 2005

Liz, how sad it was to learn of the death of Bruce. The concerts at your house over the years were such happy times. Both you and Bruce made everyone feel so welcome and loved. My late friend Durward Eubanks died a year ago today, and he too loved going to your house as long as he was able. I moved from Austin last Nov. to be near my two grandchildren. I know your children and grandchildren will be a source of great comfort to you in the coming months and years. Bruce was a wonderful person, and he will be missed by many.

Love, Betty Baugh

John Conquest

March 10, 2005

Dear Liz,

so sad to hear about Bruce. Though we worked different sides of the fence as it were, Rouse House was a wonderful part of the Austin music scene. Rather oddly, given how much you and Bruce did for acoustic music, my fondest memories of Bruce are of watching you guys dancing, always a delight.

Be well.

Bruce & Liz's 40th at Kerrville in 2003

March 8, 2005

Roberto R. De La Cruz

March 6, 2005

I was able to see my alltime favorite artist, Gail Davies, at a Rouse House concert and will always cherish the memory. Mr. Rouse was a true gentleman and generous host. My family sends their thoughts and prayers.

Anni Clark

March 5, 2005

I am at a loss for words in learning of Bruce Rouse's sudden passing. Knowing how many lives he has touched, many of them writers, lovers of language & music... me thinks I'm not the only writer lost for words... I will treasure the times I have spent with both Bruce & Liz over the years. As I write, a favorite photo sits here to remind me of the time I performed at the Rouse House in Austin... it was the first of many shows I shared with Shake Russell... we both look so happy, and very much at home. My heart goes out to Liz & her family.

God Bless,

Anni Clark

Rebecca Cuningham and Evan Wedell

March 4, 2005

Dear Liz and Family,

We went to several Rouse House concerts when we were living in Austin during graduate school. They are cherished memories of our time there. I (Rebecca) first heard the concerts mentioned on KUT around 1998 and took my husband to see Kirk Kempter for his birthday. The music was fantastic. Each time we returned to your living room, the music experience was wonderful and intimate. We always felt as though we were among friends. It was a real blow to hear of Bruce´s sudden passing. We have fond memories of his warmth and your gracious hospitality. You and he have touched our lives. Thank you.

bryn benson

March 4, 2005

My husband and I were lucky enough to meet Bruce and Liz once not too long ago when we were in Austin for our neice's graduation from UT.

I had "met" Bruce via email asking so many questions about house concerts and he always took the time to respond to my questions, even suggesting folks for us to book as part of our brand new series. I learned a lot from him.

Meeting Liz and Bruce that spring day, sitting in a restaurant talking as if we had known each other forever made a lasting impression on us. We both rememember wanting to see them again.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to you Liz and your family. We are having a house concert on Sunday and will be dedicating it to Bruce's memory. We think he might just be listening.

Namaste, Bryn Benson, Ranga Iyengar

Andy & Cheryl Winston

March 3, 2005

Dear Liz:

We were shocked to hear of Bruce's recent passing. We are so incredibly sorry for your loss. Bruce was a gentle, sweet, music-loving man, and you and Bruce have always made us feel welcome whenever we've gone to Texas, just like family. We'll never forget your kindness. Our hearts and thoughts are with you.

Alton Rex

March 3, 2005

Dear Liz & Family,

I've been going around kind of dazed now every since I heard from Todd Hoke about Bruce's passing. Going to the song circle at Live Oak tonight was the best medicine any of us could ask for, and I'll always be grateful to all the folks who put it together.

For me, the most profound memory I have of Bruce is the example he set for all of us - an example of a life lived in the service of others. He was the purest example of a Renaissance Man I ever knew, and even those of us who only met him once or twice cannot help but experience a void where he once stood. Still, the song circle lifted hearts weary with loss and gave all of us a reason to laugh, to sing, and to hug.

love,

Alton

Ralston Bowles

March 2, 2005

I will always remember the kindness extended to me as the Rouse's invited me to be part of their 2003 New Folk Camp at Kerrville and the Songwriters' Breakfast Circle. It is there I was introduced to Bruce's breakfast chef-skills, infectious smile and delightful conversation.

He will be missed.

John Burleson

March 2, 2005

Dear Liz and Family,

I am very saddend by the news of Bruce's passing. I feel that I was just getting to know him, but in a strange way, I feel like I have known him for a long time. You and Bruce have always made us feel so welcome every time that we come to KFF. It's hard to imagine what it will be like without him. We will miss him dearly. Our prayers are with you and your family.

Len Jaffe

March 2, 2005

Liz,

I never had the pleasure of meeting either you or Bruce, but your reputation is well known of all of us who either play acoustic music or produce concerts. My darling companion, Ginny Gubser, and I plan to continue in the tradition you began by hosting our own house concert series with our first show scheduled for next month. We walk in both yours and Bruce's footsteps. Please know that your loss is our loss, too. Thank you for all that you both have graciously done for all of us. Be well.

Judy Sampieri

March 2, 2005

Liz,

I am so sorry for your loss. You and Bruce have the distinction of being my first house concert experience many years ago, and I've continued to be impressed with how well, and seemingly effortlessly, you do this. I will miss Bruce's smiling face at Festival.

Pierce Pettis

March 2, 2005

Really sorry to hear about Bruce. Every time I ran into him I told him he looked like Hal Holbrook . . . and every time he laughed at the joke. We'll all miss him.

Susan McAtee

March 1, 2005

Dear Liz and family, As many others have said, I was stunned with the news of Bruce's sudden passing. Liz, you and Bruce have been such an inspiration to me, not only for the house concerts I've attended over many years, but for demonstrating such a joy of life and a model on how loving connected, unified couples share life together. I am blessed for the priviledge of knowing you and Bruce and you and Bruce have been so blessed for having had one another. Best love you you and the family.

Claudia Nygaard

March 1, 2005

Dear Liz,

I only met Bruce last summer at Kerrville, but I will never forget him. He was such an incredible host, making me feel at ease immediately when I sang at your camp for the first time. He was so kind, so encouraging, and I feel cheated that I didn't get a chance to know him better. I am so sorry to hear he is gone. My prayers are with you and your family.

Claudia

(Kerrville New Folk Winner last summer)

Jim Bob & Debra Owens

March 1, 2005

Debra & I were sorry to hear of your loss. Bruce & you will be missed at the UT football games. We wish you the best in the future.

Shekhar Jayanti

March 1, 2005

Liz,

I am very sorry to learn of this sudden and unexpected loss. Bruce was a positive inspiration in the lives of many people, including me. He was there for me whenever there was a problem in the lab or outside and never ceased to amaze me with his knowledge of everything. He introduced me to folk music and to the wonderful atmosphere at the Rouse House Concerts, the memories of which I will cherish forever. I feel honored and blessed to have had the opportunity to spend so much time with him.

Vinitha & Upali Weerasooriya

March 1, 2005

Dearest Liz,

Please accept our deepest sympathies in the wake of Bruce's passing. For everyone who knew our beloved Bruce, this is the most shocking and heartbreaking news. He was a great man who I was very proud to have known as a friend and collegue. I'll never forget the way both of you helped me. You both are in our thoughts and prayers.

I regret to say that I cannot attend the service on Wednesday because I am working in Kansas these days. I can assure you, my heart will be in Austin with your family.

When I am in town and you are ready for visitors, I hope to see you.

With Love and Respect,

Vinitha Weerasooriya and family

b elders

March 1, 2005

Dear Liz and family,

We cannot adequately express our sorrow for your loss of your husband, father, and beloved friend. Texas acoustic music performers and audiences alike, owe Bruce and Liz a profound debt of gratitude, for generations of musicians and fans to come will have gracious, generous sane settings in which to share music throughout the ages because of your efforts. You have inspired so many others to do likewise, and as a result, the American acoustic music scene is thriving.

To say Bruce will be deeply missed is truly an understatement. Long may his legacy of selfless giving, dedication, joy and humanity, thrive.

You are all in our prayers.

With love,

Betty and Gene Elders

Sandy McLain

March 1, 2005

Dear Liz,

I am deeply saddened to hear of Bruce's passing -- the loss is beyond words for everyone who knew him. And yet I have to smile as I remember his exuberant hugs and the joy on his face as he shared his passion for music at the house concerts. I will always be grateful for his kindness and encouragement at the song circles. What a privilege to have known a man with such generosity of spirit! May your memories bring comfort and peace to you and your family.

Dan & Nancy Sheehan/Smith

March 1, 2005

Nancy & I were stunned when we heard of Bruce's passing at the Monday square dance class. We've only know both of you for a short time from the Thursday square dance lessons. Bruce became my square dance idol. He made me really want to get better, and I appreciate his patience with us beginners. Nancy & I will truly miss him.

Ken Lloyd

March 1, 2005

Liz,

Judy and I just wanted to say that we mourn and sorrow for your loss. We'll never forget when we came to Kerrville as Kerr-virgins and Bruce was the first person we met that night. The next morning he was at our campsite bright and early asking us to join the breakfast. That was one of the first times Judy and I performed in public. That was three years ago this spring. We were planning on coming by and saying hello this year. We'll fondly remember Bruce for urging us to perform that morning as we haven't stopped since. All our best wishes and we now live very close to you, in Liberty Hill, so if you need anything, really, just let us know.

Deeply Saddened,

Ken n Judy.

Linda Robin

March 1, 2005

Dear Liz,

I had the pleasure of meeting you and Bruce at a Hermitage House Concert. I learned about the history of house concerts and experienced the warmth of that experience. Bruce and your contribution to this unique and intimate environment cannot be matched by a commercial concert anywhere. Thank you. My thoughts are with you and your family. Bruce's legacy continues. As a result musicians everywhere will receive the support they so justly deserve while all in attendance will have a rare and brilliant experience.

Patsy & Clyde Lee

March 1, 2005

Liz we love you and will miss Bruce.

Julie Gunning

March 1, 2005

I am so sorry to hear of Bruce's passing. Hugs to Liz and to the family. Dave and I are thinking about you, Liz.

Love,

Julie

Donna Frost

March 1, 2005

Dear Liz,

I am just so heartbroken to hear of Bruce's passing. I want you to know how much you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers right now. You and Bruce have always been so nice to me when I've seen you at Folk Alliance or SWRFA. It was such a thrill for me to be a finalist at New Folk last year and I appreciated the encouragement you & Bruce gave me. I sure enjoyed being able to take part in your breakfast concerts too. The whole New Folk experience was one of the best things to ever happen to me! God bless you and Bruce for all you've done to help all of us who are out here trying to be heard. You've given so much to the singer/songwriters. I pray you & your family will find comfort and strength in the days ahead. I regret I cannot come to the services to pay my respects, but I do hope to see you in Austin when I'm there in April.

With love,

Donna Frost

Christy Fair

February 28, 2005

Thank you, Bruce and Liz. I will never forget the night I searched out your house in North Austin so I could hear Kate Campbell, live, for the first time.

You made it happen for me. Hats off, to a fine and noble man.

Karen Abrahams

February 28, 2005

Our heart goes out out to you and your family. Bruce will be so missed ...

Ron Welch

February 28, 2005

Dear Liz,

I am so very sorry to hear of Bruce's passing. You and he were among the first "new" music folk I met after moving to Austin nearly ten years ago and you've both remained among my most admired friends and music-lovers during that time. Some of my best Austin memories include the Rouse House concerts I've attended - both as a performer and as a fan of other performers. Bruce was a gracious and considerate host; always with the comfort and needs of both his performers and his guests formost in his mind. He was also, without question one of the most generous, good-hearted, and decent gentlemen I've yet met who was so closely associated with the craziness of what we call the music-business. It never went to his head, and it always came from his heart.

I wish you and your family peace and succor in this time of great personal loss - and remember, it is your loss first, but it is ours as well and there are many to be sure, who this evening share your grief.

Blessings to you, Liz. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you in this sad and frightening time. Please know that while Bruce may be gone, you remain - and you are not alone.

with love and respect,

Ron

Ervin and Kay Coonrod

February 28, 2005

Liz,

Our condolences to you and your family for your loss of Bruce. We enjoyed a number of concerts at your house and will remember him fondly.

Kim Concepcion

February 28, 2005

My husband and I met Bruce and Liz awhile ago when they invited James Keelaghan and Jez Lowe into their home. I'll never forget how warm and welcoming they were. Life has kept us from seeing them but I will never forget how warm and welcoming they make me feel. We will miss you Bruce. You know you have a special soul when you meet someone once and you leave a huge mark on their soul. Thank you Bruce and Liz. Our thoughts are with you.

Karen Burns

February 28, 2005

My sincere condolences for this huge loss to the KFF community. May God comfort and bless Bruce's family and friends.

Kay Kimball

February 28, 2005

Dear Liz -

We were shocked and saddened to learn of Bruce's passing. You and he brought wonderful music and friendship into our lives. Bruce will be sorely missed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Ron Harrist and Kay Kimball

Glenn & Joyce Bailiff

February 28, 2005

Liz, We both love you and feel your loss. We will miss Bruce very much. We will keep you in our prayers.

Love Glenn & Joyce

Joyce Woodson

February 28, 2005

The news of Bruce's passing was a shock. I'll always remember him full of energy and ready for a big hug. I will miss seeing him at Kerrville with his warm welcoming smile. My condolences to Liz and his family. Sincerely, Joyce

McShane Glover

February 28, 2005

Dear Liz,

Bruce always did such a magnificent job of sweeping people up into his enthusiasm and convincing them that whatever he wanted them to do was the very best thing that they could be doing at that moment. To find so much genuine joy in both hearing the music yourself and making the effort to insure that others will hear it is a rare trait indeed. The music community has lost a true champion and I know your loss is beyond words. Our thoughts are with you.

McShane

Gloria Rosson

February 28, 2005

Dear Liz and Rouse family-

My deepest condolences to you all. It was a shocked and sad moment when I heard this terrible news. I have lost a dear friend. Bruce was a gentle man and a great friend of folk music. He will be greatly missed in so many ways. Liz- I put my arms around you in cyber space... do not hesitate to call on me if there is any single thing I can do. with sorrow and admiration

Dave Teichroeb

February 28, 2005

My heart goes out to you Liz. We barely new each other but Bruce's leagacy cut a wide swath through the song-writer music scene from Canada to Texas. He will be greatly missed.

TR Ritchie

February 28, 2005

Dear Liz,

So sorry to hear about Bruce's sudden passing. He, with your good help, was a sparkplug in the funky old folk music engine. He will be missed. Take good care and know that the folkfamily scattered out across the world sends you much love and support.

Best Regards, TR

Brian MacLeod

February 28, 2005

What sad and unexpected news. Bruce changed 1000s of lives with his support of the House Concert system and his pioneering of that method of spreading joy through music. So many times I've felt the warmth and revitalization that those concerts offered. His warm hug and greeting and support of budding songwriters has sent ripples around the world. He really made a difference for many, many people. He was a great contributor to music. A hero to songwriters and songlisteners.

Marsha and Pete Bruhn

February 28, 2005

Dear Liz,

What sad news! Bruce truly made the world brighter wherever he was - we'll never forget his warm hugs, sparkling smile and wonderful hospitality. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this sad time.

Hugs,

Benjamin Elliott

February 28, 2005

Liz and Family, I can't even begin to express the impact Bruce has had upon me both inside and out of the laboratory we shared for a brief moment. Bruce shared with me a parable about rocks in a jar and the sand that fills in the crevices between them (appropriate for a soils lab). He said, "...you need to pick your rocks before you let in the sand...there will always be enough room for the sand." Bruce seemed to have picked his rocks and had them in the right places. I am truly greatful he shared some of them with me, especially the music for which he had so much passion.

Claire & Tom Bray

February 28, 2005

Liz,

We were stunned and saddened to hear about Bruce. We were talking about getting in touch with you just days ago. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Bruce was a wonderful guy who added joy to every life he touched. We will miss him.

Laura Ricci

February 28, 2005

I fondly remember the wonderful evenings in your home, listening to great music and enjoying dessert with all your friends and fans. Warm memories and tender thoughts are shared by many with you in Bruce's memory.

Take care,

Laura Ricci

Eileen & Mike Strohmeyer

February 28, 2005

Dear Liz,

You and Bruce were our mentors. We will ever be grateful for having the honor of knowing you both. We will never forget that day in the Dallas airport when you spread your wings to welcome us on the way to Vancouver.

Please let us know if there is ever anything we can do for you or your family.

God Bless you and yours!

Charlotte Howell

February 28, 2005

Liz,

Clint and I are truly saddened by the loss of Bruce. We already miss you both in the neighborhood, and will always remember Bruce as a kind-hearted, gracious person. We talk and think about you both a lot as we start new memories in the old "Rouse House."

All our sympathy to you, the girls, and precious Bella and Gabe.

Clint and Charlotte

Larry Looney

February 28, 2005

dear Liz --

I feel such a sense of loss -- but I also feel such a blessing on my life to have known Bruce. The two of you have touched so many lives in such wonderful ways -- I honestly can't think of anyone else I know who is so loved and admired by so many. Bruce made this world such a better place in so many ways -- that's a legacy that will live forever in the hearts of those who knew him.

I send my love to you and to your family.

Olin Murrell

February 28, 2005

This is news I hoped to never hear. Bruce was such a lively and alive person. It's impossible to believe he's gone. Liz, my heart goes out to you at this time in your life. We'll all miss him, nearly as much as you. I'm so sorry.

Olin

Woody Woodward

February 28, 2005

Dear Liz and Family,

Life is short and we must learn to live it to the fullest. I think we can all take lessons from the way Bruce showed how that was done. My heart and thoughts are with you.

Peace Love and Hugs

Woody

John Irwin

February 28, 2005

We will miss Bruce terribly after close to 20 years of sharing music and a wonderful trip to Scotland with Bruce and Liz. We are posting this via wireless internet while on the road in our Airstream and sadly regret not being able to attend any services for Bruce.

Wendy Clark

February 28, 2005

Liz,

Indeed, Bruce was a leading light but you know that better than I. I attended just a few house concerts but the friendliness and companionship I encountered stayed with me.

May your memories comfort you,

Wendy Clark

Jean Herman

February 28, 2005

Dear Liz and family.

I am so sorry to hear about Bruce. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the girls.

Love

Jean and Neil

Jayne and Steve Wood

February 28, 2005

Much love to Liz and her family. Steve and I have been so blessed to share music and fun with the Rouse's. We're so sorry for your loss.

Kendra Terry

February 28, 2005

Bruce, you will be greatly missed!

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