Obituary of Charles Robert Rousseau

Charles “Charlie” Robert Rousseau
Date of Birth: July 16, 1944
Date of Passing January 19, 2025

Our loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and dear friend passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025 at Covenant HealthCare – Harrison, after a brief illness with his family by his side. He was 80 years old. Charles Robert Rousseau was born on July 16, 1944, in Saginaw to David “Bob” and Dorothy (O’Toole) Rousseau. He married Catherine “Cathy” Ingram, October 16, 1971.

Charlie graduated from St. Andrew’s High School in 1963, in Saginaw, MI where he was Captain of the basketball team. He then graduated with his Bachelor's Degree from Central Michigan University. He continued his education and passion for Law and received his Law Degree from The Detroit College of Law in 1973. Charlie practiced Law for 50 years in both Private Practice and at The Saginaw County Prosecutors Office. He served as Chief Prosecuting Attorney under then Prosecutor Chrisopher Boyd, whom he considered a great friend. He also served as Special Attorney General for Saginaw County for many years. Charlie loved fishing, hunting, and especially the game of golf. He would golf whenever possible. He would practice his putting and chipping game in the front yard and was able to experience 3 holes in one while he was able to play! His first was at the Germania Golf and Country club on hole 5 with a 9 iron. He was an avid fan of the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions. He loved spending time with his family and attending activities of his grandchildren.

Charlie was also a member of the Fordney Club for many years and served as past president. He truly enjoyed these meetings and gathering with his comrades. He organized the annual Canadian Thanksgiving meal for the organization. He continued to take pride in his community and served as a member of the Saginaw County Law Enforcement Officer’s Assoc., Pioneer Club, Saginaw Bar Association, Michigan State Bar Association, CAN Council, and Fordney 500. Charles also proudly served our country in the Army Reserves.

Charlie is survived by his wife Cathy of 53 years; daughters, Sarah (Ed) Shemanski, Jennifer Rousseau, and Mary Rousseau; grandchildren Abigail, Aaron, and Ryan Shemanski; siblings Margaret Rousseau, Barbara Tomasov, and David Rousseaul; brother-in-law Bob Ferens; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Ann Ferens, and brother-in-law Glen (Mort) Tomasov. He loved spending time with his good friends Chris Boyd, Otto Brant, Gregg Rousseau and former prosecutor colleagues.

FUNERAL: In keeping with Charlie's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Funeral Liturgy will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 27, 2025, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 5376 State Street, Saginaw, MI 48603. Rev. Fr. Steven Gavit will officiate.

VISITATION: Family and friends are welcome to gather at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State) Saginaw, MI 48603 on Sunday, January 26, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. and again on Monday at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass.

MEMORIALS: Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation to the Parkinson’s Foundation or St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home, church or through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com