David Roush Obituary

Mr. David Floyd Roush, age 90, of Elston, Mo., passed away peacefully Saturday, July 5, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
One of nine children, David was born at home on November 14, 1934, to the late John Albert and Martha Ella (Fugit) Roush. He met the love of his life, Donzella "Donnie" Millis, at a church revival on a Friday night, and the two were united in marriage on September 16, 1972, in Clarksburg, Mo. Together, they shared more than 50 years of devoted marriage, becoming a lasting example of love, faith, and commitment to all who knew them.
A lifelong resident of the Elston area, David began working at a young age. In 1949, he started at Pope Drug Store and then as a butcher for Temple Stephens in 1950. He then worked for Dutch Mill before taking a job with House of Bargains (a right of passage for the Roush family). In 1966, David joined the Missouri Highway Department (MoDot) where he dedicated 29 years of service to the department. He initially worked in the main office, focusing on administrative duties, before transferring to the Materials Lab; he retired in 1995 as a Lead Soil Tester. David's strong work ethic and diligence to his tasks where both appreciated and valued by his supervisors and colleagues.
David was a man of unwavering faith and a lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Elston. Over the years, he faithfully served in many roles-including Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, Training Union Director, RA Leader, Treasurer, and even janitor-always willing to help wherever he was needed. He drew strength from God's Word and relied on his faith as a guiding force through every season of life.
David enjoyed the simple things in life. He enjoyed time spent gardening, pitching horseshoes, and baking desserts, family favorites being his cakes, muffins, and fudge. He was a skilled card player, especially fond of pitch, and had a creative side that showed through his drawing, poetry, and woodworking. But his favorite pastime was fishing-whether at local spots or on family trips to Minnesota, he was most at ease with a rod in hand and water nearby.
More than anything, David treasured time with his family. His favorite memories were rooted in those moments – fishing trips to Minnesota, cross-country bus adventures with Donnie, celebrating his daughter's birth and wedding, welcoming his grandchildren, and attending Roush family reunions. He was a devoted and supportive husband, father, and Papa, occasionally ornery, but always loving. He leaves behind a legacy defined by honesty, integrity, and deep affection for those he held dear.
He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Donzella "Donnie"; daughter, Kimberly "Kim" Pike (Christopher) of Jefferson City; sister, JoAnn "Judy" Roush of Jefferson City; grandchildren, Zenon Pike and Sebastian Pike; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews; and grandpups, Kody and Simon.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Martha; brothers, Ray Roush (Sadie), Ralph Roush (Donna), Joseph Roush (Florence), John Roush (Lorene), Jimmy Roush, and Benny Roush; sister, Margaret Ann Lueckenotte (John); and several nieces and nephews.
Family and friends will be received from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Freeman Mortuary.
An additional visitation will be held Monday, July 14, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Elston. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the church with Brother David Fitzgerald and The Reverend Dr. Billy Bolden officiating. Graveside services and interment will be at Hawthorn Memorial Gardens.
For those desiring, memorial contributions are suggested to First Baptist Church of Elston, 1204 Route T, Jefferson City, MO 65109.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary.
To send flowers to the family of David Roush, please visit our floral store.