George Ernest Rouse, Sr.

 Lt. Col. George Ernest Rouse Sr., 82, peacefully passed into eternal glory on September 24, 2024. Born to Phil and Marie Rouse on July 5, 1942, in Denver, Colorado, George lived a life of service, intellect, and love.

George, an Eagle Scout and man of great academic achievement, earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Physics from the University of Arkansas, followed by two Master’s degrees—one in Mathematics from Creighton University and another in Business Administration from Marymount University.

George served his country with distinction in the United States Air Force from 1965 to 1977, and in the USAF Reserves from 1977 to 1992, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. As an aeronautical engineer, he played a key role in advancing space exploration. During his time with the USAF, George served as Chief of Operations for a series of seven spacecraft at the Satellite Test Center in Sunnyvale, CA. Later, while working with Satellite Business Systems, he collaborated closely with the U.S. Air Force and NASA, serving as Mission Director for the launch of SBS-3—the first satellite placed into orbit by the space shuttle, a monumental achievement in space history.

A man of deep faith and humility, George was a cherished member of Faith Evangelical Presbyterian Church, where he faithfully served as a Deacon, choir member, and treasured friend. His commitment to service extended beyond the church; he also dedicated over a decade as treasurer of the Koinonia Foundation, leaving a lasting impact on his community.

George is survived by the love of his life, Alice Jane Rouse, his devoted wife of 52 wonderful years. Together, they built a family-centered life, raising three children: George Rouse, Jr. (Samantha Nichols), Elizabeth Ann (Brad) Frazee, and Alice (Timothy) Colegrove. George took immense pride in his role as a grandfather to seven grandchildren: Nicholas, Aaron, Heather, and Sarah Frazee; River, Elias, and Shepherd Colegrove; and his step-granddaughter, Elizabeth Jordan. His legacy also lives on through his brother, Joseph Rouse.

George will be remembered as a brilliant mind, a generous soul, and a devoted family man. His legacy of kindness, service, faith, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, October 11, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. at Faith Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 5725 Castlewellan Dr., Alexandria, VA 22315.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Koinonia Foundation in honor of George’s commitment to serving others. http://www.koinoniacares.org/