It is with profound sadness that the Department of Surgery announce the passing of a distinguished colleague and revered member of our medical community, Dr. Dale Rouch. A devoted husband, father, grandfather and surgeon, who peacefully passed away on January 21, 2024. Dale is survived by his beloved wife, Dr. Debra (Conerty) Bergman Rouch, and leaves a legacy through his children: Rachel Bergman (Mel Yanson), Dr. Joshua Rouch (Maeghan), Stephanie Rouch, Andrea Laxton (Ben), and Evan Bergman. His memory lives on in the hearts of his grandchildren Ian and Kai Yanson, Eleanor and Atlas Rouch, and Everett Laxton. Dale is also fondly remembered by his siblings: Julian Rouch, Glenda Bogucki (Joe), Mary Sue DeLauter, Viola Woods, Larita Killian, Rosemarie Braz (Norm), Libby Christianson, and Dean Rouch. He held a special place in his heart for his adopted mother, Judy Conerty.
A native Hoosier, Dr. Rouch's journey began on a farm outside of Lakeville, IN, where he was born as the 8th of 9 children to Clarence and Mary Jane Rouch. Dr. Rouch's journey through medicine began at Indiana University, where he pursued his undergraduate and graduate medical studies. Upon completing his medical training, he embarked on a remarkable career that left an indelible mark on surgery.
Returning to Indianapolis in 1988, Dr. Rouch became an integral part of Tower Surgical at Methodist Hospital. His surgical prowess extended beyond conventional procedures, encompassing complex hepatopancreatobiliary surgeries and liver transplants.
Dr. Rouch's commitment to the academic mission was evident through numerous podium presentations at local and regional surgical conferences, along with impactful contributions to esteemed journals like the Journal of the American College of Surgeons.
Over his 35-year career, Dr. Rouch garnered well-deserved recognition, earning teaching awards and, in 1998, the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash from Indiana Governor O'Bannon for his outstanding contributions to liver transplantation in the state.
In 2012, as Tower Surgical became part of IU Health Physicians, Dr. Rouch continued his dedicated service and was appointed Professor of Clinical Surgery at Indiana University in 2016. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he leaves behind a legacy of compassion and excellence.
A loyal supporter of Indiana University, Dale joined the IU Varsity Club in 1980, holding basketball and football season tickets for his family. For over 30 years, he and his family were proud members of Crooked Stick Golf Club. Dale's love for golf took him to Scotland, where he enjoyed the game with close friends. He cherished outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking in Beaver Creek, Colorado, creating lasting memories with his wife, children, and friends.
Dale lived life with exuberance, celebrating both big and small moments of joy with his family and friends. His legacy will endure through the lives he touched. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at Flanner Buchanan – Hamilton Memorial Park (Prairie Waters). Visitation will take place from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, with a Rosary service at 7:00 p.m. Additional visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service on Thursday.
Read Dr. Dale Rouch’s obituary: https://www.indystar.com/obituaries/ins156790
