Melvin Rouse

Melvin "Bucky" Rouse, 92, a longtime resident of Kingsford, died Tues. July 3, 2012 at the Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center in Iron Mountain. He was born on March 8, 1920 in Iron River, MI, the son of late Charles and Lina (Raymore) Rouse. He was a demolition expert in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was trained as a pilot and flew 103 combat missions in the South Pacific. Bucky was awarded two Medals of Good Conduct, a letter of commendation from the commander general of the 10th Army, and a Presidential Unit Citation with one star. He was considered a true hero to many. Bucky married Mary Joyce Negro in May of 1946. He attended the University of Michigan and graduated from I.C.U. as a civil engineer. He worked for Bendix Aviation Division at General Controls, Champion, Inc., and J.M. Melin Company. He then started U.P. Steel and was part owner and president. Bucky was well known as the area representative for the National Green Thumb program for many years. He was a member of the Uren-Cooper-Johnson American Legion Post 50, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, where he was a Past Commander, and the AMVETS Post 777. For many years, Bucky was an active member of the Kingsford Housing Commission. He was preceded in passing by his wife, Mary Joyce, son Jeffrey, and daughter, Janet. Bucky will be missed by his two daughters and one son-in-law Sally Badeau of Florence and Lisa (Tom) Lueneburg, of Florence, his four grandchildren Melissa Kadlec of Green Bay, Brandon Badeau of Hawaii, Alisha Lueneburg of Green Bay, and Torina Hendershot of Aurora, his eight great grandchildren and his special lady friend of many years, Mary "Chum" Massicotte. A memorial service will Fri. at 11:00 am at St. Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church. Father Michael Woempner will officiate the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial will be in Cemetery Park. Graveside services will be accorded by the Uren-Cooper-Johnson American Legion Post 50. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established. Condolences to the family of Melvin "Bucky" Rouse may be expressed online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com The Tondin-Ross & Freeman Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Melvin Rouse

July 3, 1920 - July 3, 2012