Elmer LeRoy (“Roy”) Routh

Elmer LeRoy (“Roy”) Routh passed away January 31, 2013. He was 84 years old. Roy was born on January 19, 1929 in Lamar, Colorado to parents Earl R. and Eva R. Routh. 

After graduating from Lamar High School, he entered Idaho University as an Electrical Engineering major. He was drafted into the U.S. Army before finishing college. He served a full 30-year career in the U.S. Army and rose in the ranks from Private to Full Colonel and retired on June 30, 1980. 

He was married on August 2, 1953 to the love of his life, Joan A. Horst. They were married for 60 years until his death. Roy is survived by his wife, four children (Richard—married to Edie; K. Ron—married to Jane; Mark—married to Alexa; and Debbie—married to James Rennie), and 19 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. 

Roy received his B.S. degree from the University of Southern Colorado in 1971, and his Executive M.B.A. from the University of Colorado in 1986. He was a highly decorated soldier and veteran of the Korean War and the Vietnam War; his military decorations include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, and many others. Roy will be remembered by his friends and family as a person who idolized his wife, loved his children, and constantly maintained an optimistic enthusiasm for life and relished its challenges.

He has been looking forward to spending eternity with his Lord Jesus Christ. We are delighted for him that he is now with his Lord in Heaven—walking and running and dancing without encumbrance. 

Funeral services were held at Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church. Interment followed in Calvary Baptist Church Cemetery, with military honors provided by the Rutherford County Honor Guard.  

Crowe’s Mortuary is assisting the family.