Gary Rourke
September 08, 2009
Gary W. Rourke, 56, died Tuesday, September 8th, 2009, at his home in Pleasant Hill.
Gary was born on July 2nd, 1953, in Lone Tree, Iowa. Graduating from East High School, then Drake University, Gary earned his degree in Education. Coach Rourke has worked for the Des Moines Public Schools for 26 years, serving as a teacher, wrestling coach, and most recently, a vice-principal at East. An avid outdoorsman, Gary enjoyed fishing and hunting.
Gary is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Denise; his sons, Matt and Scott (Jenny Young); father, Ronald; sister, Judy (Dave) Kline and their family; Mark and Robin Harle and their family; Stephanie and Philip Chard and their family; and a host of family and friends. He was beloved by all. Gary was preceded in death by his mother, Jan.
Memorial services will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 12th, 2009 at the Dale and Lois Bright Community Center on the campus of East High School, 815 East 13th Street, Des Moines. A visitation with the family will be from 3:30-8 p.m. Friday, September 11th, 2009 at Hamilton's near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Avenue, Des Moines.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to East High School Alumni Association for a scholarship in loving memory of Gary.
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Heidi McCuddin
09/10/2009
Dear Denise, Matt and Scott,
Gary was a sweet man with a big heart who always had time to chat if he saw you at the school, whether it was in the hallway or at a game. My daughters, Katie and Molly, loved "Mr. Rourke." He touched many lives, young and old, and he will be sorely missed in the halls at East. I pray that you will be lifted up and comforted by the many wonderful memories of a very special man.
Heidi McCuddin
Paul and Lucy Giehl
09/10/2009
Gary will always be loved, and will never be forgotten. We are so sorry for your great loss.
The Kraig Kane family
09/10/2009
We were so very sorry to hear of Gary's passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Samantha Trehy
09/10/2009
Someone telling you that they are sorry right now is the last thing that you want to hear. I have been there and know that it wont make a difference. I am hoping that your lives will go on and you will all be capable of smiling and laughing again.I have felt what you are feeling now. Time will eventually release your pain. Your memories will make you heal. My heart goes out towards you.
Jay Fagen
09/09/2009
Denise, Matt and Scott
Words are not enough to comfort you at this time. I am so devastated to hear about Coach Rourke. I want to thank you for sharing your Husband and Father with the East side all those years. He has always been a "Class Act." I pray the Good Lord will help you with how deeply all of you are hurting. Hold tight to the memories. I will never forget Coach Rourke.
So sorry for your Loss
Jay Fagen
Class of 1991
Katie Q. McCuddin
09/09/2009
Denise, Matt, and Scott
I was so blessed to have the guidance of Mr. Rourke my senior year of high school. I was senior class president of 2007 and I will never forget him telling me that I was the daughter he never had, which makes this even more difficult. I am truly sorry for your loss. I can't imagine all the emotions you are feeling right now. But may you always have a sunbeam to warm you, Good luck to charm you, and a sheltering angel so nothing can harm you laughter to cheer you, Faithful friends near you, and whenever you pray Heaven to hear you.
CarrieLynn Fetters
09/09/2009
Denise, Matt, and Scott,
I cannot thank you enough for sharing Mr. Rourke with us. I've had the pleasure of knowing him at Hoyt and at East. He believed in everyone and has truly impacted many lives, mine included. I am sorry about the loss of your husband, your friend, your father. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mike Williams
09/09/2009
My sympathies are with the family. Gary was a great person who greatly influenced my life and showed me how to live the best I could. Thanks Gary, I will miss you.
Cindy Wilson
09/09/2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this time of sorrow. Mr. Rourke will be deeply missed in the halls of East High. The school is just not going to be the same.
Jeff Rowat Family
09/09/2009
Only kind thoughts are what we remember of Gary as our oldest daughter graduated in 2006. The individual preparation he took with each graduate in getting them ready for the outside world will always be remembered. Our only regret is that our two children still at East High will not have his guidance. Blessings to you and your family.
Michelle, Johny, Melissa Coleman
09/09/2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Tom and Mary McDonald
09/09/2009
Dear Denise, Matt and Scott,
We are so sorry for your loss. May God comfort you with his love and watch over all of you.
Henry & Tina Beerbower
09/09/2009
Denise, Matt and Scotty.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. May the Lord watch over you all and comfort you during this time and beyond.
Sandy Cloe
09/09/2009
I am so unbelievably sorry for your loss. Thinking of you all...
Patty Couch
09/09/2009
Denise, I am so sorry. Prayers are with you and your family.