Donald A. Rouse, 78, a lifelong resident of Canastota and Oneida, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 3 at Saint Elizabeth's Hospital, with his loving family by his side following a brief illness.

Born June 15, 1941, he was the son of the late Claude and Ada (Larmer) Rouse. Don was a member of the Canastota High School Class of 1959 where he excelled in the sport of Track & Field. Following graduation, he started a 44 year long career with Oneida Ltd Silversmiths before retiring in 2003. He married Joyce Graham on July 21,1962 in Canastota and were set to celebrate their 57th wedding anniversary.

Surviving along with his wife are two sons and daughter-in-laws, Todd and Mary Rouse of Canastota and Michael and Jill Rouse of Oneida. One daughter and son-in-law, Tammy and Bob Ely of Canastota. His brother and sister-in-law, Gerry and Grace Rouse of Canastota and his sister Janice Woodcock of Weedsport. Six grandchildren, Mick (Cristen) Rouse, Jonathan Rouse, Kayla (Sam Acevedo) Rouse, Faith Ely, Owen Rouse, and Nora Rouse. Don was predeceased by his brother, Edmund (Ted) Rouse.

In keeping with Don's wishes, no public calling hours will be held. A graveside interment at Lenox Rural Cemetery in Canastota will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made in Don's memory to the Upstate Golisano Children's Hospital at http://www.upstate.edu/gch/about/ways-to-give.php or 1 Children's Circle,Syracuse,NY 13210

Arrangements under the guidance of John L Matt Funeral Home, Chadwicks- New Hartford, NY. To send an online message of sympathy go to www.johnlmattfuneralhome.com