John Rouse

Obituary of John William Rouse

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John William Rouse, a former FBI agent, lifelong Writer and a man of complexities, passed away at the age of 90 on Friday, May 10, 2024 at his residence in Harlingen, Texas. His life was marked by intense passions, a relentless pursuit of the truth, and a profound impact on those who knew him. Born on December 26, 1933, John was a man ahead of his time, grappling with what we now recognize as bipolar disorder. His explosive temperament and obsessive nature were both his greatest strengths and his most challenging burdens. A dedicated FBI agent, John's career was most notably defined by his involvement in the investigation of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. He was assigned to follow a potential Cuban suspect, a mission that took a dramatic turn on a blustery day in Tampa. In a twist of fate, John placed a crucial file of documents on the roof of his car and, in his haste, drove off, scattering the evidence to the wind. This incident, a defining moment in his career, led to his transfer to El Paso, Texas. Disillusioned and broken by the experience, John soon left the FBI and transitioned to a career in life insurance sales. Despite his professional shift, he never let go of his obsession with the Kennedy assassination, a topic that haunted him for the rest of his life. John's personal life was turbulent. He often expressed regret for not having enough time to write, and this frustration manifested in verbal and physical abuse towards his family. His children endured his threats and volatile behavior, ultimately leading to a complete estrangement that lasted for the last 30 years of his life. Sixteen years ago, John relocated to Harlingen, Texas, where he found solitude and finally indulged in his passion for writing. His neighbors remember him as a kind and gentle soul, a stark contrast to the man his family knew. This bittersweet revelation provides some solace to his surviving children, who are left to reconcile the two sides of their father. John William Rouse leaves behind a legacy of a man tormented by his past but who found peace in his later years. His story is a poignant reminder of the complexities of mental health and the enduring impact of one's life choices. May he rest in peace. John is survived by two of his four children, who, despite the distance and pain of the past, carry forward his story with a hope for understanding and reconciliation. You may sign the online guestbook, light a remembrance candle, or send words of comfort to the family of John William Rouse at www.thomaegarza.com. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the care of Thomae-Garza Funeral Home and Crematorium, 395 S. Sam Houston, San Benito, Texas, (956) 399-1331.
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John Rouse

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John Rouse

1933 - 2024

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