Marion Rousseau

Obituary of Marion Rousseau Marion Booth Rousseau, 93, passed away on September 17, 2012 at Timber Ridge Nursing and Rehab Center in Ocala, FL where she was a long-time resident. She was born the daughter of George and Millie May Booth in Safety Harbor, FL. Her husband, Howard Rousseau, predeceased her. They were married for 68 years. Her loving family, who adored her, includes a daughter, Joan R. Henderson, of Lancaster, PA. Her son, Carl H. Rousseau, predeceased her. Other members of her family are grandchildren Paige Henderson of Atlanta, GA; Kimberly Gustafson, wife of Marc Gustafson of Denver, CO; and Forrest Lance Rousseau of Palm Harbor, FL. Forrest is married to Misty and they have a daughter, Isabella. Misty's children are TJ and Michael Kelly. Marion spent most of her adult life in Clearwater. After retirement, she moved to Lake Panasoffkee. She was proud of her family's heritage and roots in Florida. Her ancestor, Count Odette Philippe, was one of the first European settlers on the shores of north Tampa Bay, in an area that is now Safety Harbor in Pinellas County. She was born and grew up in Safety Harbor where her father, George Booth, served as Mayor. She went to high school in Clearwater where she met her husband, Howard. He was also a native of Pinellas County. The Methodist Church in which Marion and Howard were married is now located in the Pinellas County Heritage Village. Marion enjoyed a career as a human resource professional for the First National Bank of Clearwater from which she retired. She was also a very active community volunteer. Her main commitments were to the First United Methodist Church of Clearwater, the Junior League and helping with the Girl Scout troops in which Joan was active. Marion loved cooking, spending time at the beach, boating, and traveling. From an early age, Marion enjoyed spending vacations in the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina. She was a great cook and prepared the seafood Howard caught. The house and lawn were filled with friends and food most weekends. Everything from oyster roasts and fish-frys to Greek dinners and Cuban specialties were very special for all family and friends. One of her most popular dishes was the Greek preparation for red fish covered in vegetables and served over rice. She called it "psari plaki." Marion loved to sing, and was known for her smile, laugh and gentle manner. Services Her life celebration service will be held on Friday, September 21 at 12:30 PM at Timber Ridge Nursing and Rehab Center, 9848 SW 110th Street , Ocala. The family will welcome friends at noon. Donations Memorial gifts may be made to the Lake Panasoffkee United Methodist Church, 589 N. CR 470, Lake Panasoffkee, FL, 33538-6057.