Rouster, Leo N. 1905-1978

ROUSTER

Posted By: Errin Wilker
Date: 1/15/2016 at 19:43:21

NEW ALBIN MAN FOUND DEAD IN CHARCOAL FIRE
A New Albin man died Saturday (15 July 1978) after he fell into an outdoor charcoal fire.

Dead is Leo Rouster, 72, whose body was burned beyond recognition. He was identified through dental records.

Allamakee County authorities theorize he may have had a heart attack before collapsing and falling into the fire.

He was found by a New Albin police officer on routine patrol.

The fire spread into a nearby wood pile and the New Albin Fire Department was called to extinguish the blaze.

The man was dead on the scene.

Source: Newspaper Clipping

----- ----- -----

Added by Errin Wilker 11/5/2016:

Leo N. Rouster, 72, of New Albin, died Saturday, July 15, at his home.

He was born September 20, 1905, in Allamakee county to Nick and Anna Rouster. He was a farmer and laborer, and a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church. He was also a member of the American Legion and served during World War II. During the war he fought in French Moroccan, Tunisia, the air offensive in Europe, Naples-Foggia, Rome-Arno and North Apennines campaigns. He won several bronze stars while overseas in the African and European theaters, and also received the Good Conduct medal.

Services were held Wednesday, July 19, at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, New Albin. The Rev. Linus Raising officiated. Burial with full military honors was in the church cemetery. Pallbearers were Floyd Knuppe, Marce Kelly, Vernon Darling, Melvin Darling, James Donahue, and Floyd Pottratz.

Preceding him in death were one brother and two sisters. There are no immediate survivors.

Martin Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Source: Allamakee Journal, Lansing, IA, July 1978