James Rouse, 69, of Marietta, NY passed away on December 26 peacefully in his sleep. He was born in Lansing, MI on December 16, 1949 to Verna and Lewis Rouse. Brother of Martin and Mary Lee, he grew up in Michigan before moving to Denver, CO and marrying Donna Krehel. His former wife was a dear friend till the end and the mother of the three children he is survived by - Lisa (Sam) Reier, Martin Rouse, and Alex Rouse. Known around the Syracuse area as 'The Fireplace Man' he was happiest getting to meet new people, watching sports, and spending time on his boat. Along with his beloved dog Gunther, he was an ever-present member of the lake community who always wanted to have a beer with friends and tell them stories about his children. In lieu of calling hours a memorial will be held at the Lakeside Vista Restaurant at 2437 State Route 174, Marietta, NY on Wednesday January 2 from 5 PM to 10 PM.