Obituary of Roberta Ann Rouse

Roberta passed away peacefully at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary, after a short battle with Cancer, succumbing to a blood clot in her heart at the end. Most of Roberta’s schooling took place in Big Valley and Stettler, proceeding to Lakeland College, completing her studies in Animal Health Technology. Her career revolved around her love of animals, leading her to Olds College. There she spent the last 17 years as an instructor of the Veterinary Medical Receptionist program. She extended this knowledge to many students, some who have become dear and close friends. As Roberta’s career grew, so did her family. She was blessed in 1989 with the birth of her son Corey Kenneth and blessed again in 2005 with the birth of her daughter Drew Lynnea. Roberta loved her children deeply and was an active Mom and as years went by, was blessed with two grandchildren. For many years now, Roberta has resided on an acreage she purchased in the Donalda area. Roberta lived there with Drew and their many beloved pets and horses; this was home. Roberta had a passion for horses, which became a natural bond between her and the many friends and community. Spending time riding outdoors, in a field, on a mountain or in an arena, riding alone or with friends and family or her riding group. If she was riding, she was happy. Her riding extended to belonging to “The Ladies of the Heartland.” When Roberta was not teaching or spending time with her cherished family or riding, she always kept herself busy with a project. Renovating her home, out buildings, barnyard, there wasn’t a job too big to tackle. She was proud to show her accomplishments. Hunting also became part of her life, a trip to the mountains for sheep hunting or getting a moose or deer closer to home was also a sport. Roberta enjoyed her quiet times, but she loved people. Her friends reached far and wide. It has been said, “take care of your neighbours, they are sometimes closer to you than your family.” That is so true for Roberta. Her community and neighbours were her extended family and she spoke highly of them. Special friends from school, college and Olds college were part of her circle of life and her special love for family get togethers over holidays. Her one true love and special friend, companion and partner was Brad. Together they embraced many special moments over time. Roberta is survived by her loving family: son Corey Ventnor (Ashley) of Blackfalds; daughter Drew Rouse of Stettler; grandchildren Charlotte Ventnor and Carter Ventnor; mother Betty Cowie of Stettler; sisters: Margaret (Merl) Steiger of Hoadley, Jenny (Dave) Schumann of Strathmore, Betty Jo (Del) Sheridan of Sylvan Lake and Wendy Cowie of Strathmore; best friend and partner Brad Steinhoff of Donalda; numerous nieces and nephews; other family members and many dear friends. Roberta was predeceased by her father Wayne Cowie. Donations in memory of Roberta are gratefully accepted to the Alberta Cancer Foundation or a charity of the donor’s choice.