Lavere J. Rouch

Lavere J. Rouch

Lavere J. Rouch, age 86, of Nappanee, died unexpectedly of natural causes at 2:15 a.m., Saturday, May 14, 2016, at Elkhart General Hospital. He was born April 8, 1930, in Lakeville to Lawrence P. and Mary Catherine (Loucks) Rouch.

Mr. Rouch lived his lifetime in the Lakeville, Wakarusa, and Nappanee area. He was a 1949 graduate of Lakeville High School. On April 13, 1952, he married Betty Jean Pittman at Oak Grove Missionary Church. She preceded in death February 5, 2008. Lavere retired from NIBCO in 1981 after working there for over 25 years. He also farmed.

Mr. Rouch was a member of Nappanee Missionary Church. He was a life member of Wyatt Coon Hunters and Conservation Club. He also was well known and respected as one of the best fast pitch softball pitchers in the area. He played in area leagues until his was 57 years old. He also helped coach NorthWood Girls Softball pitchers.

Surviving are his children: Gloria (Ed) Moser, Nappanee; John (Wanda) Rouch, Watkinsville, Ga,; David (Gretchen) Rouch, Ada, Ohio; grandchildren: Valarie Mathews, Matt Moser, Justin Rouch, Kendra Rickett, Katelyn Rouch, Zachary Rouch, Joshua Rouch, Moriah Rouch and Morgan Rouch; 2 great grandchildren; and brother: Elwood (Carolyn) Rouch, Middlebury. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Betty, and sister, Clarice Balmer.

Family and friends may call from 2-8 p.m. Thursday, May 19, at Nappanee Missionary Church Chapel and for one hour prior to the funeral service which will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 20, also at the Church.

Pastor Dave Engbrecht and Pastor Norm Reimer will officiate. Burial will be in South Union Cemetey.

Memorial contributions may be given to Nappanee Missionary Church.

Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.