Franklin "Dan" Rousu

Franklin Matthew Daniel Rousu, 82, known to many as Danny, died Tuesday, January 30 at his residence under care of Hospice of the Red River Valley.

Mass of Christian Burial for Dan will be held Saturday, February 3 at 11AM in Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Ogema.  Visitation will be held Friday, February 2 at Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church from 5pm-7pm with a 7pm Prayer Service.

Franklin Matthew Daniel Rousu, known to everyone as “Dan” was born August 12, 1935 in Sugar Bush Township near Callaway, MN to Ale and Emma (Pellinen) Rousu.   He attended Goat Ranch Country School District # 126.  He graduated from Detroit Lakes High School in 1953.  After school Danny worked on the family farm and did construction for Ray Hanson Construction.  Dan was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served his country from 1958-1960.  On May 21, 1966 he was united marriage to Carolyn (Sue) Fairbanks at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in White Earth.   Shortly after marriage, Dan started his own carpentry business.  For over 40 years, Dan built churches, liquor stores and houses.   Working hard his entire life, Danny never considered retiring, he loved building projects.  After being diagnosed with cancer nine years ago, it slowed him down but he still did not retire.   Dan was a proud resident of Ogema.  Over the years he served on the City Council, Fire Department, Ogema VFW and Parish Council.   During his spare time he enjoyed trips to the casino, attending his nephews sporting activities, coffee club and spending time with family and friends.

Dan is survived by his wife Sue of Ogema and his nine siblings:  Jim (Patsy) Rousu of Meadowlands, MN, Jeanne Johnson, Phyllis St. Claire, Tom (Lee) Rousu, Dave (DeLores) Rousu, Paul (Margie) Rousu all of Callaway, Charles (Jennie) Rousu of Fargo, ND, Claire Hill of Aitkin, MN and Mildred Luedtke of Hibbing, MN.  In addition he survived by many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and five siblings:  George Rousu, Donna Wayman, Blanche Niemi, Tim Rousu and infant sister, Patsy.