Erna Helen Rouse

Erna Helen Rouse, age 75, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Born on September 12, 1950, she was the beloved daughter of the late Otto Radischat and Anna (Neal) Radischat.

Erna was born and raised in Benson, Minnesota, where she graduated from Benson High School. Though she spent her later years in Arkansas, she remained deeply proud of her Minnesota roots and often spoke fondly of her family and memories back home. Erna was formerly married to Thom Rouse, and together they shared many years and raised a loving family. She dedicated several years of her career working as a phone operator for AT&T.

In her free time, Erna found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved reading, especially mystery novels, and could often be found watching crime television shows or keeping up with family and friends on Facebook. Her morning cup of coffee was a cherished daily ritual. Erna also enjoyed playing cards and board games, with solitaire and rummy among her favorites. Over the years, she adored her pet cats and had a special appreciation for nature. She was always on the lookout for wild bears and treasured memories of a special trip she once took to see the Atlantic Ocean.

Erna will be remembered for her humor, generosity, kindness, and strong faith. She was a praying woman who never met a stranger and was especially loved by her neighbors and friends. She was incredibly proud of her children and family, who will forever remember her honest and straightforward personality.

She is survived by her three children, Nichol “Nikki” Berg and husband Todd, Kyle Rouse, and Tracy Dressendorfer and husband William; four grandchildren, Brittany and husband Christopher, Cody and wife Alyssa, Jackson, and Stella; four great-grandchildren, Gideon, Eleanora, Conrad, and Fiona; her siblings, Margie Walsch, Lois Piper, and Ruth Slivken; along with a host of extended family members and dear friends, including Vonda Nickson and Sally Belzung.

Erna was preceded in death by her parents, Otto and Anna Radischat; her former spouse, Thom Rouse; and her brother, Chuck Anderson.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Lewis Funeral Chapel in Fort Smith. Brother Sid Ree will officiate. Honorary pallbearers will be Paul Cates, Justin Blythe, and Jason Wade. Services are entrusted to Lewis Funeral Chapel.